Many cut flowers dry beautifully, giving you material for arrangements, wreaths, and crafts that last for months or years. The best candidates are flowers with naturally low moisture content or papery textures.
Strawflowers (the ultimate everlasting), celosia (retains color remarkably well), amaranth (both draping and globe types), yarrow, nigella seed pods, larkspur, eucalyptus, and ornamental grasses.
The simplest and most reliable method. Strip foliage, bundle 5–8 stems with a rubber band, and hang upside down in a warm, dry, dark place with good air circulation. An attic, closet, or covered porch works. Drying takes 1–3 weeks depending on the flower. Darkness preserves color.
Some flowers dry well standing upright in a small amount of water (1–2 inches). As the water evaporates, the flowers dry gradually. Eucalyptus and grasses dry well this way.
For flowers that do not air-dry well but you want to preserve (like dahlias or zinnias), bury the bloom in silica gel crystals in a sealed container for 3–7 days. This preserves shape and color better than air drying but is more labor-intensive.
Dried flowers are perfect for fall and winter arrangements, wreaths, and garlands. Handle gently—dried stems are brittle. Display away from direct sun, which fades colors. A light misting of hairspray can help prevent shattering.