Don't throw away wilted flowers just yet! There are numerous creative ways to give them a second life. You can gift them to show you care, or simply place them on your table to enjoy their beauty. However, when flowers start to wilt, the question arises: what to do with them? Don't worry, there are several simple and budget-friendly ideas that can help you repurpose these plants. For instance, you can create an aromatic blend or frame them as art. If you want to learn more about how to use wilted flowers, keep reading!
Creating an Aromatic Blend from Wilted Flowers
Step 1. Gather all the necessary ingredients for your aromatic blend.
Collect all the components you want to use for your aromatic blend. If you don't have enough wilted flowers or their colors, you can add petals from other plants. Petals from various flowers work great, as well as herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. To add a spicy note, consider using cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
Step 2. Dry your wilted flowers.
Once you've gathered all your ingredients, it's important to dry the flowers thoroughly to prevent mold. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch each other. If space is limited, you can use newspapers or a drying rack. Just make sure the surface is flat.
Step 3. Place the flowers to dry in a suitable location.
Set the flowers and herbs in a dry, dark, cool, and well-ventilated area. Proper ventilation is key to removing moisture from the plants and preventing bacteria and mold growth. Most flowers and herbs will dry within two weeks if you choose the right location.
Step 4. Mix all the ingredients together.
Once everything is dry, place the petals and herbs in a large bowl. To enhance the scent, add essential oils.
- Essential oils evaporate quickly, so add violet root — a natural fixative that helps retain the fragrance. It slowly releases its essential oils into the air.
- Essential oils can be found in cosmetic stores, specialty shops, and grocery stores. Try using lavender, neroli, or rose, but feel free to choose oils based on your preference.
- Use about one tablespoon (15 ml) of violet root for every cup (240 ml) of petals. You’ll only need a few drops of essential oils. Gently mix the blend to avoid damaging the flowers.
Step 5. Let the blend steep for six weeks.
Place your mixture in a glass jar or a brown paper bag and let it steep for six weeks. Shake the container gently each day to mix the ingredients. During this time, the essential oils will infuse into the violet root.
Step 6. Add more petals and herbs to your aromatic blend.
After six weeks, your blend is ready! You can add more flowers and herbs if you want to increase the volume. Your homemade aromatic blend can be displayed in a beautiful bowl or made into small sachets for use in your closet or car.
Creating a Pressed Flower Artwork
Step 1. Flatten the wilted flowers before framing.
To create a unique botanical artwork, start by flattening the wilted flowers. Place them between the pages of an old phone directory and stack some books on top to keep them flat. Leave the flowers like this for a few days.
- Note that flattening will be easier if the flowers are not completely dried out (they won’t be brittle). If you want to use this method, choose flowers that are still somewhat fresh.
- Avoid using valuable books for flattening, as the pages may get stained. An old phone directory is a great option.
Step 2. Arrange the flowers in a single layer and prepare the frame.
After pressing, lay out the flowers on uncut mat board. If desired, you can use drops of glue for securing them. Place glass or acrylic in the frame and lay the flower composition inside.
Step 3. Protect the composition from moisture and set the frame.
To protect the flowers from mold and bacteria, consider attaching a small bag of silica gel behind the mat board. Then place the backing in the frame and secure it. Now you can hang your artwork anywhere you like.
Preserving Flowers in a Bouquet
Step 1. Hang wilted flowers upside down.
Use string, clips, or something similar, but ensure the flowers are facing down. Spray a light coat of hairspray on them.
Step 2. Let the flowers dry for 2-3 days.
Apply another thin layer of hairspray and let them dry overnight.
Step 3. Apply hairspray again.
Spray another thin layer of hairspray and allow it to dry.
Step 4. Place the flowers in a beautiful vase and enjoy.
