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How to Naturally Dry
Hydrangeas
By Lesley
Dietschy
Beautiful, colorful hydrangeas are
amongst the most popular flowers to be used in dried floral
arrangements. The most important step in preserving and drying
hydrangeas is choosing the right time to cut them. Follow the
helpful steps below and you’ll be on your way to creating a
beautiful dried floral arrangement.
1. Hydrangeas have two types of
flowers on each head. The larger flowers have a small flower on
top. At the end of the blooming season (late summer) the small
flowers will have almost opened up. Also at this time, the
flowers will begin to age and take on a vintage look. This is the
prime time to cut the hydrangeas.
2. Cut the stems 12-18 inches down
from the base of the flowers and remove the leaves.
3. Position the flowers in a vase
filled with fresh water. At least half of the stem should be
submerged in water.
4. Place the vase away from direct
sunlight in a cool, dry location.
5. The water will evaporate
naturally from the vase. Do not refill the vase with water. After
the water has completely evaporated, the hydrangeas should be
dry. They are now ready to use in dried floral arrangements.
To make a dried hydrangea wreath:
You will need:
• Styrofoam wreath in desired
size
• Wire U pins
• Dried hydrangeas
Before attaching the hydrangeas to
the Styrofoam wreath, immerse the flower heads in warm water for
approximately 15 minutes. This causes the flowers to become more
pliable, prevent breakage, and allow the flowers to be torn apart
to the right size. Attach the hydrangeas to the Styrofoam wreath
using the wire U pins. After the wreath is completed, it must be
dried again for approximately 24-48 hours.
To make a hydrangea basket:
You will need:
• Basket
• Dried hydrangeas
To make a basket of hydrangeas,
simply arrange the dried flowers in one of your favorite baskets.
This basket is now ready to be placed on a coffee table,
nightstand or hallway table for the perfect home decorating
accent.
There are numerous arrangements
and crafts you can make with beautiful dried hydrangeas. Try your
hand at drying and arranging a beautiful hydrangea creation
today!
Lesley Dietschy is a
freelance writer and the creator/editor of The Home
Decor Exchange. The Home Decor Exchange is a popular
home and garden website featuring resources, a
shopping marketplace, articles, decorating pictures,
decorating advice, free projects, and more. http://www.HomeDecorExchange.com
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