How to Preserve Chinese Lanterns
- 1). Harvest Chinese lantern in late summer when the pods turn bright orange. Chinese lanterns should be cut in the middle of the day, after the morning dew has evaporated.
- 2). Remove the leaves. Tie a small bunch of Chinese lanterns together by their stems, using rubber bands, pipe cleaners or soft string. Hang them right side up in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place such as a shed or basement.
- 3). Check the Chinese lanterns after about a week. If they feel dry to the touch, untie them and store them in paper bags or cardboard boxes. If they aren't dry, leave them for another week or two.
