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.