How to Dry and Preserve Hydrangea Flowers for Long-Lasting Beauty
Harvesting Hydrangeas for Drying
The ideal time to harvest hydrangeas for drying is towards the end of their growing season (August through October). Look for larger petals that are starting to change color and develop a papery feel, while the smaller flowers are just beginning to open. If you have trouble identifying the tiny flowers, rely on the changing color alone. However, keep in mind that this can be challenging for varieties with subtle shade changes, such as ‘Annabelle.’
Preparing Hydrangeas for Water-Drying
Water-drying is the recommended method for preserving hydrangeas’ shape and color. To prepare, cut each flower on an angle, leaving a stem length between 12 and 18 inches. Remove all leaves from the stem.
Preserving Hydrangeas Using the Water-Drying Method
Fill a vase halfway with water and place your cut hydrangeas inside. Ensure there is enough space between stems for proper air circulation. Place the vase in a cool location out of direct sunlight.
Allow the water to evaporate completely from the vase, which typically takes two to three weeks. The hydrangeas should feel dry to the touch, and the stems should snap off easily.
Alternative Drying Methods
Air-Drying: Suspend individual stems upside down in a cool, dry location. Air-dried hydrangeas may be more brittle than water-dried ones.
Drying on Plant: Leave the flowers on the plant until they feel papery. However, this method may not yield the most vibrant colors or longevity.
Using Dried Hydrangeas
Dried hydrangeas can be displayed in various ways, such as:
- In a vase as a standalone arrangement
- Incorporated into seasonal wreaths
- Added to window boxes alongside other dried flowers
- Used in wedding floral arrangements
Tips for Preserving Color and Shape
- Avoid overstuffing the vase during water-drying.
- Choose flowers with minimal brown spots.
- If brown spots appear after drying, remove them before using the flowers.
- Replace dried flowers annually to maintain freshness.
Additional Considerations
- In areas with frequent rain, air-drying may not be effective due to the risk of browning.
- Air-dried hydrangeas tend to be more brittle than water-dried ones.
- The water-drying method helps preserve the sturdiness of the stems.
- Experiment with different drying methods to determine the best approach for your specific hydrangea variety.