Dried flowers and the magic of eternal blooms

Beautiful moments can be preserved – as decorative dry bouquets. The last flowers from the garden bed become a memory of this summer, the beautiful bridal and birthday bouquet becomes a permanent decoration in the living room. The sustainable evergreens are also being presented more and more often on Mother’s Day. The simple elegance and durability of the dried flowers give every room a unique atmosphere and special aura. In orange, the flowers are a simple but effective decoration. But dried flowers are much more than just pretty decoration – they tell stories of nature, sustainability, durability and creativity.

Whether as an elegant wedding bouquet, as a playful table decoration or as an artistic wall arrangement – the possible uses are diverse. With the right flowers and the right drying method, you can conjure up your own individual flower creations and capture the beauty of nature forever. And so that they don’t become dust collectors: simply blow them off regularly with a hairdryer on the lowest and coolest setting.

The versatility of dried flowers: More than just decoration

The possible uses of dried flowers are almost limitless. Whether in simple vases on the dining table, as wall decoration or as a loving accent on the shelf – dried flowers add stylish accents to any environment. In a bright and modern interior, you can, for example, place the containers next to a large mirror or colorful glass candlesticks.

An exciting alternative: Arrange the flowers into flower clouds and let them hang from the ceiling on a nylon thread. Dried flowers fit particularly well into a country-style home. This is how you can arrange the dried flowers in an old fruit box. The bouquets also look good in pottery. Another idea: a self-made wreath made of dried gypsophila, sea lavender, butcher’s broom and grasses. And of course you can also simply hang them on simply designed walls, windows or doors.

Dried flowers arranged in an old fruit crate are ideal for a country-style home

© IMAGO/Alexandra Coelho

A flower dance for eternity

But dried flowers are not only a highlight in living rooms. More and more brides are embracing the trend and choosing dried flowers for their wedding bouquets. These are not only beautiful and individual, but also retain their shape and color long after the big day – a lasting reminder of special moments. In addition, dried flowers are also used in wreaths, as table decorations at festive occasions or even framed as wall art.

The Best Flowers for Dry Arrangements

Not every flower is suitable for drying, but there are numerous varieties that retain their beauty even after they have faded. Well suited for drying types of flowers that contain little moisture, such as heather or many meadow flowers. It is ideal if they have flower heads that are as firm as possible.

Here is a selection of flowers that are particularly easy to dry:

• lavender: With its intense scent and delicate violet flowers, lavender is a classic dried flower.
• Roses: Small-flowered varieties in particular retain their shape and color intensity when dried.
• Gypsophila: The delicate, white flowers fit perfectly into airy and romantic arrangements.
• Strawflowers: Its papery flowers retain their bright colors even after drying.
• Hydrangeas: With their voluminous flower balls, hydrangeas are a real eye-catcher in every dry bouquet.
• Thistles: They provide exciting, contrasting accents in modern dried flower arrangements.
• Poppy seed capsules: These decorative seed pods are particularly durable and add a rustic touch to any arrangement.
• Island moss Best dried in boxes: It impresses with its bright colors from yellow to pink.

The drying process: DIY flower magic

If you want to make your own dried flowers, you need a little patience and sensitivity. The flowers need an airy and dark place to dry. The flowers are best picked at midday or in the afternoon when the morning dew has dried off. There are different methods for drying flowers, I have summarized the simplest and most effective ones for you here:

• Air drying: Probably the most well-known method. Hang the flowers upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated place. A wardrobe is also suitable for this. Be careful not to tie the flowers too tightly to allow air to circulate between them. After two to three weeks the flowers will be completely dry.
• Glycerin method: This technique ensures that the flowers retain their shape and flexibility better. Mix water and glycerin (2:1 ratio) and place the fresh flower stems in it. After about a week the flowers will be completely impregnated and dried.
• Microwave method: If you’re in a hurry, you can also dry flowers in the microwave. Place the flowers between two sheets of paper towels and microwave on low for about 1 to 3 minutes.
• Desiccant method: Silica gel is an excellent desiccant for more delicate flowers. Cover the flowers completely with the gel and let them sit for about a week.

Dried flowers create a cozy atmosphere

© IMAGO

Glued dried flowers to candles with wax

Pressed dried flowers are ideal for decorating candles. Eni shows how it can be done very easily with a little sensitivity: