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Growing on the High Plains

Growing on the High Plains: Dried Flowers

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Not all collected wildflowers make it into a vase of water. In fact, sometimes they end up lasting a lot longer than they would if they did! Today, we'll discuss dried flowers and the many ways they've been used as art, perfume, and more.

When I think of a field full of wildflowers, I think of summertime. As we approach the end of August, that time might feel a little shorter than many of us High Plains gardeners would like. So today's Growing on the High Plains will press upon an old practice that many “anthophiles,” or flower lovers, enlist to keep the blossoms around year-round. Dried flowers, pressed flowers, “oshibana”—whatever you call it, it goes way back and crosses many cultures. I'll discuss some tips to follow for your own project, to be sure your attempt doesn't fall flat.

Growing on the High Plains
Skip Mancini
Years ago Skip Mancini left the rocky coast of Northern California to return to her roots in the heartland. Her San Francisco friends, concerned over her decision to live in a desolate flatland best known for a Hollywood tornado, were afraid she would wither and die on the vine. With pioneer spirit, Skip planted a garden. She began to learn about growing not only flowers and vegetables, but hearts and minds. If you agree that the prairie is a special place, we think you'll enjoy her weekly sojourns into Growing on the High Plains.
See stories by Skip Mancini