What is pot pourri and why have pot pourri as a hobby?

By: Alex D on 11/08/2008

Pot pourri is French for 'rotten pot', and gets its name from a fermented, layered mixture of petals, salt, spices and fixatives. In medieval times, this unsavoury looking but fragrant substance was kept in perforated or lidded pots, and used to mask unpleasant smells and to ward off diseases.
Today, old-fashioned, or moist, pot pourri has largely been replaced by dry pot pourri, which is easier and quicker to make and far more attractive, since the petals keep much of their original colour and form. Its scent is not as intense or long lasting as the moist style of pot pourri, but dry pot pourri with jaded scent can be refreshed by adding essential oils or ready-mixed essences.

Why have pot pourri as a hobby?
Making pot pourri is a satisfying leisurely hobby that you can pursue as and when time allows. It is an excuse to get out in the garden and to keep in touch with nature. Though summer is the main season for collecting material, there are flowers for drying all year round.
Although there are many recipes, the ingredients fall into four main categories: flowers for scent or colour; aromatic leaves and herbs, which also add bulk; spices and citrus peel to sharpen the pot pourri's floral scent; fixatives to preserve the blend.

Tags: crafts pot pourri arts and crafts story competition