Easy Ways to Preserve & Dry Hydrangea Flowers

I've never been a huge fan of artificial plants and keeping them alive in your home can be tricky.  Plus, the flowers budget only extends so far.  I first started drying flowers about 5 years ago when a vendor at the farmer's market taught me how to dry hydrangeas.  I was hooked and it became a go-to housewarming instantly.

Fast forward a few years, another farmer's market vendor at the Green City Market in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago taught me I could do the same with eucalyptus.  Prepare yourself for the easiest tutorial you've ever read.

Purchase a bundle or two of eucalyptus or hydrangeas from your local farmer's market or florist

I like to check with the vendor that this is a style of plant they've seen dried.  It's only the hydrangeas at the end of the season that can be dried.  September is eucalyptus season.

Purchase Africare 100% Glycerin

Africare 100% Glycerin is traditionally known as a hair treatment for people of African descent; however, I learned it can double as a drying agent for flowers as well.  It's available at most drugstores.  I found mine at Walgreens for $8, which can be purchased here.

Combine water and Africare 100% Glycerin

When it comes to drying flowers, the amount of water and the ratio of water to glycerin are the two most important parts. You'll want 2-3" of water in your vase to dry the flowers.  Essentially, you want just enough for the plant to take a big sip.  Add 1 tablespoon of glycerin to your water and you're set.

The plant will start to dry over a 2-3 week period, so don't be surprised when it takes a while.  The glycerin will help to keep the leaves soft as they turn a mix of greens and soft browns.

Have you dried your own plants? or have always wanted to try? We'd love to hear in the comments below.