The Difference Between Silica Gel & Beads for Drying Flowers

Silica for Drying

• Since silica is a desiccant, it pulls the moisture and water from the flower without damaging it. As the water wicks away, the flower retains its original shape and stays close to its original color. Some flowers naturally darken as they dry. While flowers can also be air dried, air-drying takes a longer than silica drying and may result in misshapen or discolored flowers.

Silica Gel

• Immersing flowers in a container of silica gel dries the blooms in a short period. While brands vary, most silica gel types include moisture crystals that indicate when your flowers are done. Completely submerge the flowers in the gel. Complete the process in a sealed container. Silica gel is reusable and is the easiest way to dry flowers. It is more expensive than silica beads, but a better choice for beginners or when a quick result is desired.

Silica Beads

• Silica beads work in the same way as gel, but require a more time to setup and to fully dry the flowers. Silica beads need to be layered in and around each petal to work properly. The beads support the petals and maintain the shape of the flower as it dries. Take care when arranging the flower and add the silica beads in small amounts until the flower or flowers are completely covered. Since silica beads usually do not have a moisture indicator, they should be left in place for at least 48 hours, and then poured off into another container. Working with silica beads is more time consuming than gel but are less expensive.

Considerations

• The differences between silica gel and beads are mainly the cost and the convenience. Both types can be reused many times. Simply store the silica in an airtight container until you are ready to dry more flowers. No matter the form of silica you choose, store it away from pets and kids. It is harmful if consumed. For either silica type, consider removing the flower heads or blooms from the stems before drying. The flowers are easier to handle and you can add permanent wired stems after completing the drying process.