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'
sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-paniculata-l…
Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' AGM
sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-paniculata-l…
Lunaria annua
sarahraven.com/products/lunaria-annua
Allium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation'
sarahraven.com/products/allium-hollandicum-pur…
Allium schubertii
sarahraven.com/products/allium-schubertii
Allium cristophii
sarahraven.com/products/allium-cristophii
Climbing French Bean 'Monte Gusto'
sarahraven.com/products/french-bean-monte-gusto
Runner Bean 'Black Knight'
sarahraven.com/products/runner-bean-black-knight
Fig 'Little Miss Figgy' (Ficus carica)
sarahraven.com/products/fig-little-miss-figgy
Chasmanthium latifolium
sarahraven.com/products/chasmanthium-latifolium
Papaver somniferum 'Black Beauty'
sarahraven.com/products/papaver-somniferum-bla…
Amaranthus hypochondriacus 'Pygmy Torch'
sarahraven.com/products/amaranthus-hypochondri…
Follow Sarah: instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill
See our events: sarahraven.com/courses-events
Get in touch: info@sarahraven.com
Shop on the Sarah Raven Website: sarahraven.com
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/sarahravensgarden
Follow Sarah: instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill
Order Sarah’s latest books: sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest