The impermanence of flowers is mourned by poets and gardeners alike. Flowers are short-lived, waxing and waning within the cycle of a single year. When flower heads are spent, the petals cling to what little beauty they have left. While some casual home decorators opt for fake flowers, these often appear tacky or garish, not to mention the negative energy they are said to bring.  

One way to counteract the desire for flowers and their fleeting nature is to substitute with dried flowers. Many flowers dry well, maintaining their vibrancy, and display beautifully. The next time you are bored, take the time to curate them into wreaths, bouquets, and table arrangements, where they will stay for years to come. 

FLOWERS AND PLANTS THAT DRY WELL

• Bunny tails

• Lavender

• Delphiniums

• Globe amaranth 

• Billy buttons 

• Strawflowers 

• Pampas grass

• Sunflowers 

• Safflower 

• Cotton stems 

 

1. Accent with Natural Décor

Natural accents such as seashells, gourds, and even dried lotus pods can bring a rustic feel to your tabletop arrangement. The pitted shape of lotus pods, with the stems still attached, pair well with the darker tones of autumn, making them ideal for a gothic-inspired setting. Feathers with striking patterns are also underutilized elements that can be displayed under a glass terrarium. Round out your display with hues of white, chartreuse, and orange. 

2. Look for Vintage Vessels   

One of the most popular ways of displaying dried flowers is to place them in a vase as a floral bouquet. Vintage vessels lend a natural, weathered look that complements the wispy outlines of dried flowers. When aiming for a theme, there are several options available, including shabby chic, farmhouse, or gothic. Antique shops will often sell vases and containers that fit many of these options. Old decorative vases are good choices, with facades such as a metal patina or weather worn paint seen as character rather than imperfections. 

3. Mix Dried Flowers with Living Blooms    

Living flowers can bring much-needed exuberance and color to a dusty display shelf. Contrast fresh garden dahlias with rustic eucalyptus to evoke a sense of nostalgia; sprigs of lavender carry a delicate, calming scent. For the added benefit of fresh herbs, grow them alongside dried flowers with these high-quality indoor herb planters. 

4. Dry Your Own Flowers 

You can also dry your own flowers to add more variety. Although they may not last as long as store-bought dried flowers, the process of drying will preserve their beauty a little while longer. To begin, cut the flower at the base of the stem – a hori hori knife is recommended for sharp incisions. Strip the flowers of any excess foliage, then hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area. Leave to try for about two weeks. Afterwards, finish with hairspray as an added measure. 

 

5. Add Elegance with Glass Dome Displays 

The image of a single rose wilting under a glass bell jar serves as a reminder of the evanescence of beauty, a vanitas made iconic in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Those who appreciate art will understand the symbolism behind glass domes – a beautiful display feature that harkens back to the Victorian era. Under the glass dome, the preserved flowers persist indefinitely, almost as to be everlasting. Careful thought is given to the arrangements to ensure that they are cohesive in appearance and form.  

6. Select a Single Color               

A single color can sometimes have a powerful impact, especially fiery hues of red, orange, and yellow. Dress up a black vase with crimson roses and dahlias for a dramatic display. Take advantage of the stately height of sunflowers to sculpt them above the coral-like kangaroo paws (Anigozanthos). Keep in mind that larger flowers can be heavier and may need to be propped up with topiary foam or tape. 

7. Create Table Centerpieces  

 Even the simplest tablescapes can be made livelier with a dazzling floral centerpiece. It does not have to be elaborate – pick a few large flowers and embellish with complementary pieces. Alternate by switching between seasons: a fall display might include the russet tones of amaranth while a summer display incorporates airy pastels. Layer fruit with jewel-like tones, such as pomegranates and small berries. 

8. Enhance with Branches  

Branches, whether with leaves still attached or stripped bare, are underappreciated elements that draw the eye towards brighter attractions. Many tree branches are interestingly textured, emulating natural features such as coral. Some, like red birch or the corkscrew willow, are persuasive enough on their own as focal points in doorways. You will be surprised at how just a few branches can add instant appeal to an otherwise bare space. 

9. Dried Flowers as Artwork 

Pressed or dried flowers can sometimes be too delicate or insubstantial on their own. In these cases, they work better when framed as wall décor or artistically pressed into the pages of old books. Look for supplies in craft shops, or consider purchasing premade ones in online marketplaces like Etsy. Pick flowers that are flat and small in size, such as daisies, pansies, or bluebells. Then place them between sheets of wax paper, folding them in a heavy book. Check after two weeks. 

10. Hang Dried Flowers Upside Down       

While most people don’t leave their flowers hanging upside down, bunches of flowers hung this way often make for ethereal combinations. Loosely woven into formations, hanging flowers of varying lengths are elegantly showcased on wooden racks reinforced with twine. The inherent charm lies in the twisting stems and wilting petals, presenting a muted tone reminiscent of an old-timey apothecary; indeed, some may even prefer it this way.