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