Best flower varieties to use for dry flower bouquets

Creating dry flower bouquets is a delightful way to enjoy the beauty of blooms long after they’ve faded in the garden. Flowerbee Hong Kong Florist explores some of the best flower varieties that work wonderfully for crafting stunning dried flower arrangements:

1. Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla):

   • Hydrangeas are popular for their large, showy flower heads.
   • Choose mature blooms with petals that have started to dry naturally on the plant.
   • These flowers retain their shape and color beautifully when dried.
   • They add a touch of elegance and fullness to bouquets.

2. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia):

   • Lavender not only smells heavenly but also dries exceptionally well.
   • Harvest lavender stems just before the flowers fully open.
   • Hang them upside down in a cool, dark place to preserve their fragrance and color.
   • Lavender adds a calming and aromatic element to dried arrangements.

3. Strawflowers (Helichrysum bracteatum):

   • Strawflowers are known for their papery petals that retain color even after drying.
   • Harvest them when the petals are fully open but still firm.
   • Hang them upside down to dry, and they’ll maintain their vibrant hues.
   • These flowers are perfect for adding texture and warmth to bouquets.

4. Statice (Limonium spp.):

   • Statice, also known as sea lavender, comes in various colors.
   • Harvest statice when the flowers are fully open but still fresh.
   • Air-dry them by hanging them upside down.
   • Statice provides a delicate, airy appearance in dried arrangements.

5. Gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata):

   • Commonly known as baby’s breath, gypsophila has tiny, cloud-like flowers.
   • Harvest the stems when the flowers are fully open but still crisp.
   • Hang them upside down to dry.
   • Baby’s breath adds a light and ethereal quality to bouquets.

6. Roses (Rosa spp.):

   • Roses are timeless and versatile for both fresh and dried arrangements.
   • Choose fully opened roses with petals that are just starting to dry.
   • Hang them upside down or use silica gel for faster drying.
   • Roses bring romance and elegance to dried bouquets.

Remember these tips for successful drying:

• Harvest Timing: Pick flowers at their peak, just before they fully open.
• Darkness: Dry flowers in a dark place to retain their color.
• Thin Petals: Opt for blooms with thin petals and low moisture content.
• Air Drying: Hang flowers upside down in a cool, dry area.
• Experiment: Feel free to experiment with other flowers like nigellas, larkspur, and strawflowers.