I picked some fresh pine cones and I want to keep them fresh for the holidays when I make potpourri. Any tips?

Answer 1

Steps:
Gather (or purchase) a desired quantity of cones.

Clean the cones (if you found them yourself). Pick off any pine needles or visible debris that may be stuck between the cone layers. (Don't even try to remove sap that may be stuck to the cone.) To eliminate any little critters that may have taken residence in the cone, soak the cones in the sink or a tub using a non-sudsing product (a 1/2 cup of vinegar or ammonia) in a sink full of warm water. Soak the cones for about 20 minutes, and swish them around every few minutes. Rinse them thoroughly. You can run them through the dishwasher, too, but don't use any soap. The cones will close up when wet.

Place the cones on a towel or newspaper to dry. The drying time can take several hours or even a few days. Let them air dry. (See warnings.) As the cones dry, their layers will re-open.

There are a couple of methods you can use to put the "preserving" finish on your cones. Whichever you choose, it's best to do it outdoors.
Prepare your work area. Cover your work area with a layer of aluminum foil. You may also want to use an old window screen or a baker's cooling rack over the foil on which to place your cones while the finish dries. This will help keep the cones from sticking to your work area, and allow air to circulate.

Regardless of which method you use, begin applying the finish to the bottom of the cone first. After you apply the first coat of finish to the bottom, lay the cone on its side, atop the cooling rack and let it dry. Then do the tops and sides of the cone, standing it upright to dry.

Method One: Spray finish. Using a non-yellowing spray varnish (see Tips), follow the manufacturer's instructions. Lay the cones on their sides and spray the bottoms of the cones with a light, even coat of finish. When the bottom is dry, invert the cone to a "stand up" position. Covering the top and sides of the cones, hold the can at an angle slightly above the cone to ensure you get inside the cone petals. Repeat these steps as many times as you desire, but allow each light coat to thoroughly dry before applying an additional coat.

Method Two: This is messy and labor intensive but, oh, what a difference the finish will be! Use a marine varnish. It is available at most larger, reputable hardware stores. The smallest size can of marine varnish is usually a quart, and it can be a bit pricey. Following the manufacturer's instructions and warnings, apply a light coat of varnish with an inexpensive brush that you can dispose of when your project is complete. Wear disposable gloves; you're going to get sticky. Hold the cone at the "pointy" end and apply a light, even coat of varnish to the bottom of the cone with the brush. Lay the cone atop your rack and allow the varnish to dry to the touch. (See Tips.) Once the cone bottom has dried enough so you can hold it, (just slightly tacky) apply the varnish to the top and sides of the cone. Angle the brush between the cone petals, too. Set the cone upright on the drying rack to dry.

Tips:
Avoid the "cinnamon" scented pine cones. They've been treated with chemicals that may react to your finish.

If you use Method One: Be certain to use spray varnish, and not spray acrylic.

If you use Method Two: While waiting for marine varnish to dry between coats, clean your brush in mineral spirits, and wash it lightly with warm water and dish soap. Squeeze out any excess water/moisture between paper towels. This will prevent the brush from stiffening during the time your cones dry. When your project is complete, dispose of the brush.

Depending on the humidity levels of your community, marine varnish can take several days to dry to a hard finish. Once dry, they can withstand rain and snow.

Warnings:
Some people will dry their cones in the oven at a very low temperature (no higher than about 175 degrees F.). This is a personal choice. Remember: (1) there is a fire risk to consider and (2)warm sap runs. It's best to allow the cones to dry naturally and not "force" the cone open. Do not attempt to dry the cones in a microwave oven.

Use your "preserved" cones in wreaths, centerpieces and floral arrangements, garlands, or display them in a basket or bowl. Avoid placing your varnished cones in or around arrangements that contain lighted candles and NEVER put them into an oven or near a lighted fireplace to enhance the drying time.

Store any unused varnish product and mineral in a cool dry space, away from pilot lights, or washing machines and dryers, or the water heater. Dispose of empty cans properly.

Answer 2

vacume seal them, or freeze them in water, it works for fish.

Answer 3

store them in your colonic region

Answer 4

put them it the deepfreezer until you want to use them

Answer 5

colonic? id say vaginal