How to Dry Hydrangeas in a Food Dehydrator

A food dehydrator allows you to dry hydrangea flowers quickly and conveniently. The dehydrator will retain the color and shape of the hydrangeas while removing the moisture. Dried hydrangeas can be used to decorate your home in craft projects. After you dry the hydrangeas properly, you can store them in an airtight container and use them as needed.

• 1

  Pick hydrangeas in the garden once the dew dries. Select ones that are fully bloomed and past the budding stage.

• 2

  Cut the stems off the hydrangeas so that no more than 1 inch remains attached to the blooms. Inspect the flowers for insects and damaged petals. Discard the ones that you do not want to use.

• 3

  Heat the dehydrator to a temperature range of 100 degrees F. If you live in a humid location, you may need to increase the temperature to 125 degrees F.

• 4

  Place the hydrangea flowers on the dehydrator trays. Place them in a single layer, and do not allow them to touch each other.

• 5

  Inspect the flowers every hour as they dry. The flowers can take up to four or five hours to dry completely. Remove the flowers when they feel crisp to the touch. Take care when handling the dried flowers; they will break or crumble instead of bending.

• 6

  Store the dried flowers in an airtight container. Place the container in a cool and dry location.