Tom Stimpson: The 12 best dried flowers for glamorous Christmas decorations - Episode 248

It’s the run-in to Christmas, so if you’re thin on decorations and want to think more sustainably about dazzling your guests this year, turn to the garden and start drying flowers now. In the first of many ‘12 Best’ episodes over the coming months, Tom Stimpson joins us as he and Sarah talk through the best flowers for stunning dried arrangements, and top tips to maintain their unique texture and colour throughout the season. In this episode, discover: Creative, sustainable ways to use dried flowers and foliage for beautiful homegrown Christmas decorations Tried-and-tested techniques for drying and preserving everything from hydrangeas and dahlias to autumn leaves and poppy seed heads Expert tips for maintaining colour, texture, and longevity in your dried arrangements Inspiring ideas for DIY festive crafts that bring your garden’s magic indoors Products mentioned: Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Fresco' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-paniculata-little-fresco Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' AGM https://www.sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-paniculata-limelight Lunaria annua https://www.sarahraven.com/products/lunaria-annua Allium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-hollandicum-purple-sensation Allium schubertii https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-schubertii Allium cristophii https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-cristophii Climbing French Bean 'Monte Gusto' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/french-bean-monte-gusto Runner Bean 'Black Knight' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/runner-bean-black-knight Fig 'Little Miss Figgy' (Ficus carica) https://www.sarahraven.com/products/fig-little-miss-figgy Chasmanthium latifolium https://www.sarahraven.com/products/chasmanthium-latifolium Papaver somniferum 'Black Beauty' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-somniferum-black-beauty Amaranthus hypochondriacus 'Pygmy Torch' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/amaranthus-hypochondriacus-pygmy-torch Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/ Get in touch: info@sarahraven.com Shop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeu Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/ Order Sarah’s latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest