Chicken Coop Chatter©
Hydrangea can be cut at any stage of bloom for fresh bouquets, however for drying purposes, I wait until the flower heads are firm to the touch. I then cut them, remove the leaves, bind with twine and hang upside down to dry on my clothes drying rack. I use a large paper clip bent out and slip it onto the twine for a sturdy, quick and easy hanger. Allow to air dry for several days, depending on humidity it may take up to a week, but usually only a few days if they are firm to start with.
Some people have success drying the hydrangea in a bit of water upright in a vase. I have had marginal success with this and again best success if the flower heads are firm to the touch, not soft. You'll know the difference when you touch the flower heads. Some will feel soft while others will feel very firm.
SUPPLIES:
Twine
Large Paper clip
Good Pruning clippers
Drying rack
Place the dried flowers in a large vase, bucket or favorite container for display or attach the stems with floral wire to a wire wreath frame. They are a lovely addition to a special gift, tied with ribbon to secure to the package. Individual flower clusters can be separated from the main flower head for small packages or small displays.
The dried flowers can also be sprayed with an acrylic spray or colored floral spray if you want to alter the colors of some that may be pale looking or want the flowers to coordinate with room colors. Use the sprays in well ventilated areas out of the wind. The acrylic spray will hold the color and keeps dried flowers from looking dusty. You can find both types of spray at your local craft outlet.
(Refer to my instructions for growing hydrangea from cuttings at this link: http://justfowlingaround.weebly.com/pioneer-gardens/how-to-dry-hydrangea )
(For a DIY Potpourri Lamp, refer to my instructions at this link: http://justfowlingaround.weebly.com/earth-friendly-projects/diy-potpourri-lamp )
Please refer to the link below for hand pruning sheers that I use and love.
Chicken Coop Chatter© All Rights Reserved 2011-2017
CREDENTIALS: Certified Oregon State Master Gardener since 1999. Horticulture degree 2001. Study of Herbs and Horticulture Therapy, heavy research and study of all plants and herbs. Gardening a lifetime.