Discover the Secrets to Growing, Harvesting, and Creating with Dried Flowers

Are you looking for a creative way to add beauty and charm to your home that lasts throughout the year? Dried flowers are the perfect solution! Not only are they easy to grow and harvest, but they also provide endless possibilities for creating stunning arrangements and decorations.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of growing your own dried flowers, harvesting them at the right time, and using them to create various crafts and decor. So, let's dive right in and unlock the secrets of the dried flower world!

Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Flowers to Grow

When it comes to growing flowers specifically for drying, you want to select varieties that retain their shape and color even after the moisture has been removed. Some popular choices include lavender, roses, hydrangeas, statice, and strawflowers. Each of these flowers provides unique textures, colors, and scents that can elevate any arrangement or craft project.

Everlastings: How to Grow, Harvest and Create with Dried Flowers

by Bex Partridge (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	70100 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	160 pages

FREE

It's essential to research the specific growing conditions, sunlight needs, and maintenance requirements for each flower variety you choose. By providing the right environment, you'll set yourself up for success and ensure a bountiful harvest of beautiful dried flowers.

Step 2: Planting and Caring for Your Drying Garden

Now that you have selected your ideal flower varieties, it's time to start planting! Most dried flowers thrive in well-draining soil with a good balance of organic matter. Prepare the soil by adding compost or aged manure to enrich its nutrients.

When it comes to water, dried flowers generally prefer drier conditions compared to fresh flowers. Be sure to water your garden carefully, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. This will ensure healthy plants and prevent mold or rotting issues.

Regular inspection for pests and diseases is also crucial. Take the necessary measures to protect your garden from common pests and diseases, such as aphids or powdery mildew.

Step 3: Harvesting at the Perfect Time

The key to successful dried flowers lies in harvesting them at the peak of their beauty. Each variety has its specific indicators, such as the right stage of maturity or color, to determine when it's ready for harvest.

Typically, flowers should be picked before they reach full bloom. Colors may intensify or fade during the drying process, so it's essential to observe the desired result. Harvesting in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler can help preserve the flowers' essential oils, fragrance, and vibrant colors.

Step 4: Drying Techniques

Once your flowers are harvested, it's time to dry them properly to maintain their beauty and longevity. There are several effective drying techniques to choose from, depending on the type of flower and your personal preference.

Air drying is the most straightforward method, involving hanging the flowers in small bunches upside down in a well-ventilated, dark area. This allows the flowers to naturally dry while retaining their shape and color.

If you prefer a quicker drying process, you can also use an oven or microwave on low settings. However, be cautious with these methods, as certain flower varieties may become brittle or lose their colors under high heat.

Step 5: The Creative Journey Begins

Now that you have your dried flowers, it's time to unleash your creativity and embark on various projects and crafts. The possibilities are endless!

You can use your dried flowers to create stunning floral arrangements, wreaths, or even potpourri. Their delicate beauty adds a rustic touch to any home decor, wedding venue, or special event.

For those passionate about arts and crafts, dried flowers make beautiful additions to greeting cards, bookmarks, or handmade jewelry. With a little imagination and some basic crafting supplies, you can transform your dried flowers into unique pieces of art that make heartfelt gifts.

As you can see, growing, harvesting, and creating with dried flowers is a delightful journey filled with possibility. By carefully selecting the right flower varieties, providing the necessary care, and mastering the art of drying, you can unlock the beauty and versatility of dried flowers like never before.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your own dried flower garden and let your creativity bloom along with them. Embrace the timeless charm and elegance that dried flowers bring, and enjoy their beauty all year round.

Everlastings: How to Grow, Harvest and Create with Dried Flowers

by Bex Partridge (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	70100 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	160 pages

FREE

Everlastings is a celebration of the life of flowers, showcasing the ethereal beauty of dried flowers.

Bex Partridge takes you on a journey, starting with practical advice on how to pick flowers both at your home and outdoors, with in-depth descriptions of the many methods of drying blooms, seed heads and foliage, before sharing her favourite ways to style with dried flowers in the home as well as wearable items such as floral crowns and hair clips.

The main section of the book features over 20 projects to try at home, all accompanied with beautiful photography. Suitable for both those that have never worked with dried flowers before and the seasoned professionals, the projects span many levels of experience. Bex shares ideas on how to capture the memories and moments of special days, through the gathering and preserving of flowers, to be treasured for years to come.

She also shares her knowledge of the ecological benefits of dried flowers, as well as chapters on foraging and thoughts on the meditative benefits of working with dried flowers. Filled with stunning imagery that Bex has become known for online, Everlastings presents a modern take on an age-old craft.