Experiment by collecting some of the sweet-smelling ingredients

Experiment by collecting some of the sweet-smelling ingredients Some modern potpourri enthusiasts still employ a process of fermentation to create spokeswoman their “scent-sations,” but there are simpler ways that don’t require rotting. Whether you’re a fan of dried potpourris or the fresh “simmer-on-the-stovetop” variety, I have two recipes that are guaranteed to please this holiday season.

Experiment by collecting some of the sweet-smelling ingredients that linger in your yard, the woods or a friend’s waning flower garden. To supplement your local harvest, order quality components that are organic and/or wild-harvested. (My favorite source is Mountain Rose Herbs at ). Mountain Rose offers bulk quantities for those of you who are already thinking Christmas gifts!

Learn more ? To delve deeper into this aromatic art, try to find a used copy of Potpourri and Fragrant Crafts, by herbalist Betsy Williams (Readers Digest, 1996). The book is no longer in print, but its detailed spokeswoman instructions and photographs make it a must-buy if your passion is potpourri.