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Now is the perfect time to embrace the allure of the fall season and create stunning, long-lasting dried flower arrangements! Not only are dried flowers a sustainable way to enjoy nature's beauty, but they also add a touch of rustic charm to your home décor.
Why Dry Your Fresh Flowers?
Longevity: Under the right conditions, dried flowers can last for years, providing a continuous source of beauty. They also continue to change naturally over time: some deepening their hues while others soften, so you’ll get to enjoy an evolving arrangement that will provide new and unexpected interest for months.
Sustainability: By now, we hope everyone is dedicated to playing their part in improving the world around us. Drying your own flowers is a fun and craft way to reduce waste and minimize your environmental impact.
Versatility: Dried flowers can be used in a variety of creative projects, from wreaths and garlands to home décor and more.
Choosing the Perfect Fall Flowers
Here are some of the best flowers to dry for a beautiful fall display:
Hydrangeas: Their large, showy blooms dry beautifully and retain their shape very well.
Roses: Classic and elegant, dried roses add a touch of romance to any arrangement.
Dahlias: Cheerful and elegant as fresh flowers, dahlias dry surprisingly well and the beautiful layers dry into fun and unexpected patterns.
Wheat, Oats, and Ornamental Grasses: These natural grasses add texture and movement to your arrangements.
Eucalyptus: With its silvery-green leaves, eucalyptus is a versatile choice for both fresh and dried arrangements.
Drying Methods for Fall Flowers
Here are a few effective methods for drying your fall flowers:
Air Drying:
Bundle Method: Gather a small bundle of flowers and secure them with a rubber band. Hang the bundle upside down in a warm, dry, and dark place. This is personally our go-to method. It is a zero-waste, zero-ingredient way of preserving the beauty of your blooms.
Laying Flat Method: Place individual flowers on a flat surface, such as a baking sheet, cardboard or Tupperware, and cover them with silica gel packets.
Microwave Drying:
Quick and Easy: Place fresh flowers between layers of paper towels and microwave on high for short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Pressing:
Perfect for Delicate Flowers: Place flowers between sheets of absorbent paper and press them using heavy books or a flower press.
Tips and Tricks for Successful Drying
Timing is Key: Begin the drying process just before or at the peak of the flower’s blooming. Flowers that have already begun to decay will be flimsy and will not hold up as well to the drying process.
Strip Excess Foliage: Remove any leaves that will touch the drying surface to prevent mold.
Patience is a Virtue: Drying can take several weeks, depending on the method and flower type.
Protect from Dust and Pests: Once dried, store your flowers in a cool, dark, and dry place. Some common household pests may look for your dried flowers as a home or a snack. Keeping them hanging off the ground will reduce the chances of pest activity.
Creating Stunning Fall Arrangements
Once your flowers are dry, the fun part begins! Here are some ideas for creating beautiful and sustainable arrangements:
Dried Flower Bouquets: Combine different dried flowers and grasses to create unique and eye-catching arrangements.
Wreaths and Garlands: Use dried flowers, leaves, and berries to create festive wreaths for your front door or elegant garlands for your mantle.
Home Décor: Incorporate dried flowers into your home décor by placing them in vases, bowls, or hanging them from the ceiling.
By following these tips and unleashing your creativity, you can create stunning, long-lasting, and eco-friendly dried flower arrangements that will bring the beauty of fall into your home. Happy crafting!
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