What is Potpourri?

Potpourri is a mixture of dried flowers, leaves, seeds and cones. It is used as a natural air freshener to hide the smell of odorous objects and leave a fresh aroma instead.  Usually placed in a decorative bowl or tied in a small sachet made from sheer fabric, scent is regularly sprayed on the flowers to release its gentle original smell. Here are steps in making potpourri:

1. 1. Gather flowers, leaves, seeds and cones like mint blossoms, lavender, roses and other available blooms.
2. 2. Dry them on a tray covered with paper towels in a warm and airy area. Check collection frequently. If overly dry, it loses the natural oil and disintegrates easily.
3. 3. When thoroughly dry, store each kind in sealed containers away from light. If moisture is still visible, continue drying them.
4. 4. Add fixative and oil to make it smell great.  Some good fixatives are orris root, calamus root, oakmoss, and tonka bean. Whole or crushed spices, cinnamons and cloves may also be added.
5. 5. You may need to blend different oils like citrus, floral, herbal or spice for more fragrance. To start, use only three (3) scents — a dominant scent and one or two other accent oils with a ratio of 4:2:1. Place the cotton ball with scents in a sealed container. After 24 hours, smell it about six (6) inches away from the source. If not pleased, add more or start all over until satisfied.
6. 6. Write procedures and measurements for future reference.  Every quart of petals needs two (2) tablespoons of chopped orris root, calamus root and other fixative or oil.

Spicier fragrances use carnation with twelve (12) drops of dominant oil over the chopped root, six (6) drops of second accent and three (3) drops of the third accent oil.  After several days, add leaves and petals. Store it for a couple of weeks while shaking the container gently once in awhile. After 4 to 6 weeks, the potpourri is ready.

Now that you know how to make a potpourri, try making one at home. It can give you a scent that provides a smooth and relaxing environment.

Booth Flower Shop

57-07 Main Street

Flushing, NY, 11355 USA

718-539-7333

www.boothflowershop.com