How to Dry Hydrangeas for Fall Decor (Easy Evaporation Method!)

I don’t know about you, but I hate bringing bugs into the house! My hydrangeas always had bugs and spiders hiding in the flowers, so I started washing them. The soap suffocates the bugs, and you’ll be amazed seeing them all float around in the water after soaking and washing. Bonus: Hydrangeas actually love their flower heads being soaked in water, so feel free to use this method for fresh cut arrangements, too! The evaporation method (putting them in shallow water to dry out) is just for those late summer blooms that you want to try out and enjoy in the fall and beyond. I find it gives me the best results! 

Disclaimer: This method isn’t meant for fresh store-bought flowers! This works best with hydrangeas cut straight from the bush at the right time – in late summer to early fall when the flowers are starting to turn color.

Here’s the simple drying process I use to achieve the best dried blooms. If you’re more of a visual learner, scroll for the video tutorial.

Simple Step-by-Step Guide on How to Dry Hydrangeas Using the Evaporation Method

1. Cut stems when they are just starting to turn slightly brown at the end of summer.
2. Strip leaves off of stems, leaving just the tiny 2-3 leaves at the top nearest to the flower.
3. Fill a sink with cool to room-temperature water and add a few drops of dish soap. Fully submerge the hydrangea flower heads and let them soak for 10-15 minutes. This will suffocate any bugs hiding in the flowers.
4. Drain the sink and rinse each flower to remove any soap residue and remaining bugs.
5. Lay stems on a towel to dry for 10-15 minutes.
6. Arrange stems in a vase with around one inch of water. The water will evaporate on its own over the next few days, and the flowers will dry in the state that you picked them in.
7. Optional: Once dry, spray with a light mist of hairspray to prevent further shedding.

Video Tutorial for the Best Way to Dry Hydrangeas

@whatnatisdoing

How to dry hydrangeas for the fall! The best DIY fall decor ✨ #hydrangeas #falldecor

♬ Morning Bossa Nova – Bossa Nova Terrace

I hope you try this easy method (it’s the best way!) and get to enjoy your dried hydrangeas this fall and beyond.

Cheers!