Workshop 7 - Make your own herbarium

How can you learn the names of plants in your garden, while having fun? By becoming a knowledgeable botanist!


Equipment
- Cardboard
- Absorbent paper
- 2 small boards
- A belt
- Screws
- A microwave oven
- A container
- A clothes iron
Preparation
A. Using a press
1. Wrap the plants with absorbent paper (such as newspaper). Change this paper regularly. Between each envelope, place pieces of cardboard.
2. Secure this snugly between 2 small wooden boards with a belt or screws. Wait at least 2 days.
B. Drying in the microwave oven
1. Arrange the plants between the sheets of absorbent paper. Keep flat under a container holding a bit of water. CAREFUL: use microwave-safe paper and container.
C. Drying with a clothes iron
1. Iron the plants after arranging them between 2 sheets of absorbent paper, and then place the plants under a press for at least 2 days. You can now make the boards of your herbarium.