How to Dry Pomegranates for Decoration

Dried whole pomegranate can be added to a holiday wreath.

You can air dry pomegranates over a period of weeks so they can be used as seasonal or year round natural decorations. Removing moisture from the pomegranate helps to prevent mold growth that would blemish the exterior surface of the fruit. With proper drying, the pomegranate's color deepens to a dark ruby red. Dried pomegranates can be kept for years and can be used to accent the decor of any room of the house.

Things You'll Need

• Nonabrasive sponge
• Paper towels
• Wire cooling racks

Instructions

1. Clean the outer surface of the pomegranates under cool running water using a nonabrasive sponge.

2. Dry the outer surface of the pomegranates thoroughly with paper towels.

3. Place the pomegranates at least two inches apart on wire cooling racks in a well ventilated area that never gets direct sunlight.

4. Allow the pomegranates to dry for six weeks before checking to see if they have cured by shaking them. Let the fruit continue to dry until the arils have dried enough to sound like a rattle.

5. Dust off the dried pomegranates with a slightly damp paper towel before using them as a decoration.

Tips & Warnings

• Use hot glue to affix whole dried pomegranates to a craft.

References

• Recipe Goldmine: Food Preparation Techniques: Pomegranates
• Nola.com: Red Alert by Dale Curry