Historically, the tradition of pressing and archiving herbarium specimens had an educational purpose but these specimens are also beautiful and can be hung out of direct light to be admired all year long.

It is quite easy to press small plants but for large pieces there are a few tips that will make the process more forgiving. Alex Frost shared his expertise with us in pressing and mounting large-scale botanical specimens.

Materials:

Acid-free cotton rag paper for mounting plant specimens
Mounting tape, available at many craft stores and online
PVA glue (acid free glue)

Optional materials:

Tools:

Large plant press (see directions in our craft section)
Extra sheets of corrugated cardboard and foam to fit press

Pressing Directions:

1. Cut plant specimen on a dry day so it is free of surface moisture.

2. Set up press with alternating layers, two of cardboard and two of blotter paper and so on. If your specimen is thick and fleshy, consider adding layers of foam between cardboard to increase the air flow through the press and soften the surface for the thicker parts of the plant.

3. Tighten the straps on the press. If necessary add more weight with books evenly across the surface of the press.

4. A fan blowing through the press will also speed up the process and aid in drying. Check on the specimen for dryness in several days.

5. When dry it is ready to mount. Use acrylic spray to help preserve color and stability of delicate leaves and petals before mounting, if desired.

Mounting Directions:

1. There are several ways to attach plant material to mounting paper. Which method to use will depend on the plant material.

2. Spray glue can be used to mount ferns or other plants with complicated leaf structures, whereas sewing or even copper wire is helpful to attach thicker stems and branches. Removable mounting tape is another way to attach stems.

3. Use Acid free PVA glue to secure leaf edges to paper. With a small artists paintbrush line the edges of the leaves with glue and press into mounting paper. Allow glue to dry.

4. Frame specimen behind glass, if desired, and hang in an area without direct light.

Special thanks:
Alex Frost

www.cryptogamicbotanycompany.com