How to Press Leaves

Love the colors of fall? Capture them, using these tips from Debby Walters of Byron, Illinois. In their business, Hillside Gardens, Debby and husband Bill regularly work with Mother Nature’s bounty, as described in the current issue.

What: Soft and supple leaves, not those that are curled and dry. Look to native trees, like oak, maple, aspen, ash and hickory, and ornamentals such as Bradford pear and gingko. Also consider shrubs like burning bush, sumac and hydrangea.

Where: On the ground wherever you enjoy a fall walk—parks, forest preserves or your own backyard. Pulling leaves from trees can damage next year’s growth and may be prohibited in public areas.

When: Early in fall, just as they’re beginning to turn brilliant colors. Go after a breezy rain, when fresh leaves have dropped prematurely and not yet deteriorated.

How: Just follow these three simple steps:

1. Gently pat leaves dry with paper towels.
2. Place leaves in an old phone book —several per page is fine, as long as they don’t touch. Allow about 3/4-inch thickness of pages between each pressing page.
3. Place weight on the book—like two bricks, a gallon water jug or a stack of heavy books.

In about 2 weeks, your pressed leaves will be ready to decorate pictures, cards or scrapbooks.