Does anyone know how to dry hydrangeas properly?

When is the best time to cut the flowers and what is the best method of drying them please.I cut some a fortnight ago, but they've just shrivelled rather than dried.

Does anyone know how to dry hydrangeas properly?
While it is tempting to cut the hydrangea blossoms for drying at the height of their color, this seldom, if ever, works. Fresh, recently opened blooms, rarely dry well in the open air. Hydrangeas do best when allowed to dry a bit on the plant before picking. Experiment with harvesting from August through October.





It is not necessary to hang them unless they have weak stems.





Here is a link to help you with drying fresh ones for colour.





http://www.hydrangeashydrangeas.com/dryi...
Reply:Unlike yourself, I have never had any trouble drying hydrangea. They are the easiest. simply hang them upside down and they will retain their shape. A cool,dry, dark or muted room is the best. After they are dry spray them with a matte or glossy clear spray paint, depending on your preference. will help them last FOREVER
Reply:I leave mine on the bush 'til they have dried themselves out.
Reply:Hi Wonder Women. I adore them fresh or dried.


This is a good time to dry them ,as they are now in all there Glory.


What I do is cut them and stand them in warm water with lots of sugar. I leave them for about 3/4 days. I then take them out, dry the stems with kitchen paper and hang them upside down in the airing cupboard for a month or two or untill your ready to use them.


What I like to do is at Christmas, spray them with either silver or gold paint and maybe add some glitter. They look wonderful


on any table or in an arrangement.


W.W. this method works for most flowers.


Have a go and enjoy.


Regards,


C