Maxine ~ WW (kinda)

When guests come to visit,
I just put down drop cloths and say,
"We're painting."

Give me a sense of humor, Lord,
Give me the grace to see a joke,
To get some humor out of life,
and pass it on to other folks.

How To Dry Hydrangea Flowers

Drying Hydrangea Flowers is Easy!

Large showy hydrangeas are spectacular in the garden and even more so when dried and preserved. Knowing when is the right time to cut the flowers needs to be determined so they dry at their peak.

Dried hydrangeas will last a very long time and hold their color if they are kept out of direct sunlight.

Steps

1.  Examine the hydrangea flowers heads at the end of their blooming season. There are actually two types of flowers on each head. You will see that the larger flowers have a tiny flower on top.

2.  Wait until the tiny flowers on top have almost opened. The color will just have begun to fade. This is the prime time to cut them.

3.  Cut stems 12 to 18 inches down from the base of the flowers.

4.  Remove any leaves on the stems.

5.  Place the flowers in a deep vase filled with clear, fresh water. The stems should be submerged at least half way.

6.  Place the vase in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. You can enjoy the flowers during the drying process.

7.  Allow the water to evaporate naturally from the vase. Once the water is completely gone, your hydrangeas should be dry and ready for use in your floral arrangements/decorations or craft projects.

Tips

Cut the dried hydrangeas into small segments for use in craft projects.

Wire the small segments onto twigs, branches, or wreaths. You may also use a hot glue gun to attach them to floral arrangements.

Smaller flowers, segments or individual, can be used in potpourri.



Use to make dried arrangements. 

Give meaningful mementos special embellishments 

Such an assortment of colors!

Enjoy!