Dried hydrangea...as far as the eye can see

I regret, every year, that I throw away my hydrangea after using them in late spring, summer and early fall arrangements. NO MORE I say. Such beautiful flowers, at this time of year they dry to perfection.

Look for firm heads, preferably mop heads and treat them like you would any cut flower. They will dry on their own, (though the dark blue and red varieties, and also the white generally do not dry that well...floral spray paint works fine if this is the color your heart desires). Pay special attention to the green, those "stained" with pink spots and the deep burgundy with khaki tips. of and of course the more delicate and beautiful pale blue with green....these are the best!

Visit your local florist and load up on these beauties and soon you will have the most beautiful materials to make a wreath, a garland, or simply enjoy them on their own in a glass vase or a decorative basket. (A spray of millet grass looks great spilling from a basket of dried hydrangea).

Now is the time darlings, get out and grab some while they are hot. Go see Neve growers at the SF Flower market and tell him that John James sent you. Their collection of Hydrangea Paniculata (aka Pee Gee) this year is sublime.

Have fun!