Wilted flowers are a common problem that often leaves us wondering what to do with wilted flowers. Instead of discarding them, repurposing wilted flowers can transform them into creative and practical items.
From homemade potpourri and pressed flower art to unique jewellery and natural cleaners, there are countless ways to give these blooms a second life.
This article explores 17 different methods for repurposing wilted flowers, providing step-by-step guides and tips for making the most of your old flowers.
Check out how to turn what was once destined for the bin into beautiful and functional creations.
#1. Make Homemade Potpourri
To craft a fragrant potpourri from old flowers, start by selecting flowers with scents like roses, lavender, or jasmine. Combine these with other fragrant plants like eucalyptus or herbs. Include additional scents from herbs or spices such as cinnamon, sticks, star anise or cloves to complement the floral notes.
Steps for drying wilted flowers:
- Select wilting or dead flowers with intact petals.
- Remove any damaged petals and trim the stems to your preferred length.
- Gently arrange the flower heads on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.
- Tie the flowers into small bundles using plain dental floss and hang them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area
- Place the tray in a dark location with good air circulation.
- Turn the flowers upside down every few days to ensure even drying.
- Leave the flowers for two to four weeks, checking periodically until they are completely dry.
- Once the flowers are dried, gently arrange the dried flower heads and petals in a large bowl.
For the potpourri mix:
- Combine dried petals with a few drops of essential oils like lavender or lemon.
- Add two or three drops of essential oils and mix in spices like cinnamon or cloves.
- Incorporate fixatives such as orris root powder or dried lemon peels to help retain the scent.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly until everything is completely covered.
Place the potpourri in an airtight container to preserve its fragrance for storage. When ready to use, fill a decorative bowl with the potpourri to freshen a room.
Add a few drops of essential oils every few weeks to refresh the scent. Keep the potpourri away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and loss of fragrance. This process transforms old flowers into beautiful and fragrant potpourri, extending their life and usefulness.
#2. Create Pressed Flower Art
Pressing flowers is a delightful way to preserve the beauty of your garden or a special bouquet. For best results, use a heavy book or a specialised flower press. Both methods require placing flowers between absorbent paper to avoid moisture damage.
Steps for creating pressed flower art:
- Choose fresh flowers with vibrant colours and remove excess foliage, then re-cut the stems.
- Place flowers between two layers of absorbent paper like paper towels or parchment paper.
- Position them inside a heavy book or press, adding extra weight on top.
- Check and change the blotting paper every few days to avoid moisture damage.
- Flowers typically become completely dry and pressed in two to four weeks.
To preserve the colour and longevity of pressed flower art:
- Use a sealant like unscented hairspray or decoupage glue to protect the delicate petals.
- To preserve the colour and longevity of your pressed flower art, display it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and spray the pressed flowers with unscented hairspray to preserve their colour.
- Seal the artwork with decoupage glue or a clear sealant.
- For artwork ideas, arrange pressed flowers on a glue-coated surface and consider framing behind UV-resistant glass for additional protection, like paper or canvas, then frame it for a unique display.
- Store any unused pressed flowers in a cool, dark location with good air circulation to maintain their vibrancy and condition.
You can also create personalised greeting cards by glueing pressed flowers to cardstock or make bookmarks by using decoupage glue to adhere pressed flowers to cardstock bookmarks. These pieces make thoughtful gifts or charming home decorations.
#3. Homemade Dried Flower Body Scrub
Using natural ingredients in body scrubs offers numerous benefits, such as avoiding harsh chemicals, reducing the risk of skin irritation, and providing gentle exfoliation. Natural scrubs can also be customised to suit various skin types and preferences, making them an excellent addition to your skincare routine.
Steps for creating a homemade dried flower body scrub:
- Start by gathering dried flower petals like rose petals or lavender, sugar, and your favourite essential oil.
- Ensure the flowers are completely dry by placing them on a baking sheet in a dark, well-ventilated area for a few hours.
- In a bowl, mix one cup of sugar with 1/4 cup of dried flower petals.
- Slowly add 1/2 cup of coconut oil or olive oil to the sugar and flower mixture.
- Add two or three drops of your favourite essential oil, such as rose oil, for added fragrance.
- Mix until the sugar and oil are well combined and the petals are evenly distributed.
- For customisation based on skin type, use extra virgin olive oil for dry skin for added moisture.
- Add a teaspoon of lemon juice for oily skin to help control oil.
- Use a gentle essential oil like chamomile and replace sugar with baking soda for a milder scrub suitable for sensitive skin.
Store the body scrub in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When ready to use, apply the scrub to damp skin in gentle circular motions during a shower, focusing on rough areas. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Use up to two times a week for the best results.
This homemade dried flower body scrub exfoliates and nourishes your skin while adding a touch of natural luxury to your skincare routine.
#4. Compost For Your Garden
Composting wilted flowers is a sustainable way to recycle plant material and enrich garden soil. It helps reduce waste and improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient content, leading to healthier plants and better garden yields.
Steps for composting wilted flowers:
- Gather wilted or dead flowers, including cut flowers and other foliage.
- Remove any non-organic materials like floral wire or ribbons.
- Cut the flowers into smaller pieces to speed up the composting process.
- In your compost bin, create a layer of green materials (flowers, fresh plant clippings) followed by a layer of brown materials (dry leaves, paper towels).
- Add a small cup of soil to introduce beneficial microbes and ensure the compost is moist but not waterlogged, adding water if necessary.
- Stir the compost every few weeks to ensure better air circulation and faster decomposition.
- Maintain a balance of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials to promote efficient composting.
- Keep the compost in a shaded area to prevent it from drying out and ensure it remains as damp as a wrung-out sponge.
- Composting generates heat, so ensure your pile reaches the right temperature (between 54Ā°C and 66Ā°C) to kill pathogens.
By following these steps, you can transform dead flowers and other organic waste into rich compost, giving new life to your garden and contributing to a sustainable environment.
#5. Decorate Candles
Decorating candles with dried flowers can add a touch of elegance to any setting, but it's important to follow safety guidelines to avoid fire hazards.
Steps for attaching dried flower petals to candles:
- Ensure the dried petals do not come into direct contact with the flame to prevent fire hazards.
- Place the flowers below the wax surface and avoid using large flower heads that could catch fire easily.
- To attach dried flower petals to candles, start by selecting small, flat petals.
- Apply a thin layer of heat-resistant glue to the candle's surface.
- Gently press the dried petals onto the glue-coated surface and allow them to dry for a few hours.
- Once dry, add a layer of melted wax to seal the petals in place, ensuring they are completely covered.
- For visually appealing candle designs, consider arranging the petals in patterns or combining different types of flowers.
- For a rustic look, use small bundles of dried flowers tied around the candle with floral wire.
- Press flowers individually onto the candle in a symmetrical pattern for a more elegant design.
Creative ideas for using dried flowers for different occasions include using petals from a wedding bouquet to make a personalised wedding candle or seasonal flowers to make festive holiday candles.
A candle decorated with pressed flower art makes a thoughtful gift for special occasions, bringing new life to wilted blooms.
#6. Create Floral Bath Salts
Floral bath salts offer a luxurious way to relax and improve skin health. The therapeutic properties of flowers, combined with the healing benefits of salts, make for a rejuvenating bath experience.
Steps for making dried floral bath salts:
- Gather dried flowers like lavender, rose petals, chamomile, Epsom salts, baking soda, and your favourite essential oil.
- Mix two cups of Epsom salts, one cup of baking soda, and 1/2 cup of dried flower petals in a large bowl.
- Add 10-15 drops of essential oil, such as lavender or rose, and mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
- Fill small airtight containers or decorative jars with the mixture, ensuring they are tightly sealed to preserve the scent.
- To use, add a small cup of bath salts to lukewarm water and stir until dissolved.
- Soak in the bath for up to two hours to fully benefit from the relaxation and skin-nourishing properties.
Floral bath salts make lovely gifts for special occasions. They bring the beauty and fragrance of fresh flowers to any bath. Incorporating these natural ingredients into your bath routine provides a simple, luxurious way to care for your skin and unwind.
This simple yet elegant creation is ideal for personal pampering or as thoughtful gifts for special occasions.
#7. Design Unique Floral Wreaths
Creating unique floral wreaths is a delightful way to celebrate different seasons and special occasions. You can use dried flowers like tulips and daffodils to bring a vibrant touch. In summer, sunflowers and daisies add a cheerful feel.
You can also use dried flowers and other foliage in warm tones, like orange and red leaves.
Steps on making wreaths with wilted flowers:
- Start by gathering dead flowers and removing any damaged petals.
- Cut the stems to your preferred length and tie small bundles of flowers upside down with plain dental floss.
- Allow them to dry completely in a dark, well-ventilated area.
- Once dry, attach the flowers individually to a wreath form using floral wire.
- Arrange the flowers to create a balanced look and fill any gaps with other foliage or dried blooms.
To preserve the wreath's appearance over time, spray lightly with a UV-resistant sealant and avoid placing it in direct sunlight to prevent the colours from fading.
For better air circulation, keep it in a cool, dry place. If using fresh flowers, consider spraying the wreath with a mix of distilled water and lemon juice to maintain freshness. This method not only extends the life of the wreath but also keeps the flowers looking vibrant and beautiful for special occasions.
#8. Make A Flower Infused Oil
Flower-infused oils are versatile, enhancing both skincare and cooking. In skincare, these oils can moisturise, soothe, and add fragrance to lotions and balms. For cooking, infused oils add a delicate floral flavour to dishes, perfect for drizzling over salads or incorporating into dressings.
Lavender-infused oil, for example, can soothe the skin or add a floral note to baked goods.
Steps on making dried flower-infused oil:
- Select your favourite essential oil and dried petals.
- Place the dried flowers in a clean, dry jar and cover them with the carrier oil, such as olive or almond oil. Ensure the flowers are completely submerged.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a warm, dark place for up to two weeks, shaking it gently every few days.
- After infusing, strain the oil through a fine mesh or paper towel into an airtight container to remove the flowers.
When selecting flowers and oils for infusion, choose flowers known for their beneficial properties and pleasant scents, like lavender, rose, or chamomile.
Ensure the flowers are thoroughly dried to prevent mould growth. For carrier oils, olive oil is excellent for cooking, while almond or jojoba oils are ideal for skincare.
Always strain the oil through a fine mesh to remove all plant material, and store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
By following these steps, you can create luxurious flower-infused oils that bring new life to your beauty routine and culinary creations, making them perfect for special occasions or everyday use.
#9. Create Floral Resin Jewellery
Floral resin jewellery offers a unique way to preserve the beauty of wilted flowers, turning them into timeless accessories. This type of jewellery captures the vibrant colours and delicate structures of flowers, making each piece a miniature work of art.
It also allows you to carry a special memory, such as a wedding bouquet or a significant bloom, close to your heart. The tools and materials needed for resin jewellery making include:
- Resin
- Hardener
- Silicone moulds
- Mixing cups
- Stir sticks
- Gloves
- Dried flowers
- A torch or heat gun
- Fine-grit sandpaper
Steps for creating wilted flowers in resin:
- Ensure flowers are completely dry to prevent mould. Place flowers upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area for a few weeks.
- You'll need resin, a hardener, moulds, dried flowers, a mixing cup, stir sticks, gloves, and a torch or heat gun.
- Follow the instructions on your resin kit to mix the resin and hardener in the correct ratio. Stir slowly to avoid bubbles.
- Pour a small layer of resin into the mould. Arrange the dried flowers individually on the resin layer.
- Pour another layer of resin over the flowers until they are completely covered.
- Use a torch or heat gun to remove any bubbles that form.
- Allow the resin to cure for the time specified in the instructions, usually up to two hours or more.
- Once cured, remove the pieces from the mould and sand any rough edges.
Consider using small, colourful blooms that maintain their shape well for design and finishing tips. Experiment with different flower combinations and add other elements like glitter or small beads for extra flair.
Ensure the flowers are arranged to create a balanced and attractive composition. Finish the pieces by sanding the edges for a smooth finish and attach findings like earring hooks or necklace chains to complete the jewellery.
#10. Decorate Gift Wrapping
Using dried flowers to enhance gift wrapping adds a personal and elegant touch, making any present look thoughtful and unique. This approach repurposes wilted blooms and creates a beautiful, eco-friendly decoration.
Steps for decorating gift wrap using dried flowers:
- Select small, flat, dried flowers or petals.
- Gather gift wrapping paper, ribbon, twine, glue, and dried flowers.
- Wrap the gift with paper and secure it with ribbon or twine.
- Apply a small amount of glue to the back of each flower.
- Gently press the flowers onto the ribbon or paper, arranging them in a pleasing pattern.
- Allow the glue to dry completely for a few hours.
For a cohesive and attractive gift presentation, choose a colour scheme that complements both the wrapping paper and the flowers. Neutral tones like kraft paper or white wrapping paper work well with colourful flowers, creating a striking contrast.
Use plain dental floss to tie small bundles of flowers together for a more rustic look. Consider adding other natural elements like sprigs of herbs or leaves for extra texture. To finish, spritz the wrapped gift with a room spray of your favourite essential oil for a delightful fragrance.
By incorporating these ideas, you can transform simple gift wrapping into a memorable and beautiful presentation, perfect for any special occasion. The use of dried flowers enhances the visual appeal and adds a personal and heartfelt touch to your gifts.
#11. Make A Scented Room Spray
Using natural ingredients for home fragrances has numerous benefits. They are free from harsh chemicals, reduce the risk of allergic reactions, and provide a subtle, natural scent.
Essential oils from plants offer therapeutic benefits, such as relaxation and mood enhancement. Creating your own room spray also allows you to customise the fragrance to your preferences.
Steps for making a scented room spray with dried flowers:
- You will need distilled water, witch hazel, dried flowers, and your favourite essential oil.
- Ensure the flowers are completely dry by placing them in a dark, well-ventilated area.
- In a small spray bottle, combine 1 cup of distilled water with 2 tablespoons of witch hazel.
- Add 10-15 drops of essential oil and a small handful of dried flower petals.
- Close the bottle and shake well to mix all ingredients.
For storage and usage, keep the room spray in a cool, dark place to preserve its scent and effectiveness.
Shake the bottle before each use to ensure the ingredients are well mixed. Spray the room spray in the air or onto linens to freshen up any space.
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent the essential oils from degrading. This natural room spray enhances the ambiance of your home and provides a pleasant, chemical-free fragrance.
#12. Craft A Flower Petal Confetti
Flower petal confetti adds a charming and eco-friendly touch to weddings, parties, and other events. It is perfect for tossing during celebrations, decorating tables, or filling gift bags. Using natural petals is biodegradable, avoiding the environmental impact of traditional confetti.
To dry and prepare dried flower petals for confetti, follow these steps:
- Choose petals from fresh flowers or wilting blooms.
- Gently remove petals from the stems and spread them out on paper towels.
- Place the petals in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
- Allow them to dry for several days until they are crisp.
- Ensure the petals are completely dry before storing them to prevent mould growth.
- Keep the confetti in an airtight container to maintain its dryness. Store it in a cool, dark place to preserve the colours and prevent the petals from becoming brittle.
- When handling, be gentle to avoid crushing the delicate petals.
Using flower petal confetti on your special occasion adds beauty and demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. This natural confetti brings a touch of elegance and eco-consciousness to any celebration, enhancing the overall atmosphere with its vibrant colours and delicate texture.
#13. Make Floral Soap
Floral soap offers numerous skincare benefits, including gentle exfoliation, natural fragrance, and the therapeutic properties of flowers. Using dried petals from dead flowers or fresh flowers, floral soap provides a luxurious feel and enhances your skincare routine.
The natural ingredients help soothe and moisturise the skin without the harsh chemicals in many commercial soaps.
To create soap with dried flower petals, follow these steps:
- You will need a soap base (glycerin or shea butter), dried flower petals, essential oils, and soap moulds.
- Cut the soap base into small pieces and melt it in a microwave or double boiler.
- Ensure flowers are completely dry. Spread them on paper towels and let them air dry away from direct sunlight.
- Once the soap base is melted, add a handful of dried petals and a few drops of your favourite essential oil. Stir gently to combine.
- Pour the mixture into soap moulds, filling each mould to the top.
- Let the soap cool and set for up to two hours or until completely hardened.
- For moulding, curing, and storing the soap, carefully remove the soap from the moulds once it has hardened.
- Place the soaps on a cooling rack to cure for a few days, allowing them to harden further and ensure longevity.
- Store the floral soaps in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container, to maintain their fragrance and prevent moisture absorption.
Floral soap adds a touch of elegance to your bathroom and makes a wonderful gift for special occasions. It brings the beauty and benefits of flowers to your daily skincare routine.
#14. Design A DIY Phone Case
Dried flowers into a clear phone case create a unique and personalised accessory showcasing pressed flower art. This technique preserves the beauty of blooms and allows you to carry a piece of nature with you.
To design dried flowers in your phone case, follow these steps:
- You will need a clear phone case, dried flowers, tweezers, clear adhesive, and a clear sealant.
- Ensure flowers are completely dry. Spread them on paper towels and let them air dry away from direct sunlight.
- Using tweezers, arrange the dried flowers individually inside the phone case, positioning them as desired.
- Apply a small amount of clear adhesive to the back of each flower and press it gently onto the inside of the case. Allow the adhesive to dry completely.
- Apply a clear sealant over the flowers to protect them from damage and ensure they stay in place. Let the sealant dry for a few hours.
To create unique and personalised designs, consider using a mix of small and large flowers and incorporating elements like leaves or small twigs for added texture. You can also add a layer of glitter or use different-coloured adhesives to create a vibrant background.
Ensure the arrangement is balanced and aesthetically pleasing by experimenting with different layouts before securing the flowers. Personalising a phone case with dried flowers protects your device and adds a touch of natural beauty and individuality to your everyday life.
This DIY project is perfect for showcasing your creativity and making a statement with your accessories.
#15. Make Coasters
Making coasters using resin and dried flowers is a delightful way to preserve the beauty of dead flowers while creating functional art. Resin coasters are durable, water-resistant, and can be customised with various designs.
Steps for making coasters with dried flowers:
- You will need resin, hardener, dried flowers, coaster moulds, a mixing cup, stir sticks, gloves, and a torch or heat gun.
- Ensure the flowers are completely dry by placing them on paper towels in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Follow the instructions on your resin kit to mix the resin and hardener in the correct ratio. Stir slowly to avoid bubbles.
- Pour a thin layer of resin into the moulds.
- Using tweezers, place the dried flowers individually onto the resin layer. Arrange them in a pleasing design.
- Pour another layer of resin over the flowers until they are fully covered.
- Use a torch or heat gun to remove any bubbles that appear on the surface.
- Allow the resin to cure according to the instructions, usually for 24 hours.
To ensure durability and aesthetic appeal, make sure the resin layers are evenly poured, and the flowers are well-embedded without air pockets. Choose flowers that maintain their colour well, such as roses or lavender, to keep the coasters looking vibrant.
Adding a layer of clear adhesive under the flowers before pouring the final layer of resin can help keep them in place and prevent shifting. These resin coasters protect your surfaces and add a touch of natural beauty to your home decor.
#16. Create Flower Petal Beads
Dried flower petal beads offer a unique way to repurpose dead flowers into beautiful and sentimental jewellery pieces. These beads capture the essence of flowers, preserving their colour and texture while providing a personalised touch to your accessories.
To make beads from dried flower petals, follow these steps:
- Collect dried flower petals, glue, a mixing bowl, a skewer or toothpick, and a sealant.
- Ensure the petals are completely dry. Crush them into small pieces.
- Combine the crushed petals with glue in a bowl to form a thick paste.
- Roll small amounts of the paste into bead shapes. Use a skewer to create holes for stringing.
- Allow the beads to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Once dry, coat the beads with a clear sealant to preserve their colour and durability.
These beads can be used to make various jewellery pieces, such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, or incorporated into other crafts like keychains and decorative items.
To preserve the beads' colour and shape, store them in an airtight container and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or moisture. Using fresh flowers that are vibrant in colour, such as roses or violets, helps maintain the beads' visual appeal.
With these tips, you can create beautiful and lasting floral jewellery that captures the essence of special occasions and cherished memories.
#17. Make A Floral Surface Cleaner
Using natural cleaners for home maintenance offers numerous benefits, including reducing exposure to harsh chemicals, being environmentally friendly, and providing a pleasant, natural fragrance.
Natural cleaners made with ingredients like flower-infused vinegar are effective at cleaning surfaces while adding aromatherapy to your cleaning routine.
To make a natural surface cleaner using flower-infused vinegar, follow these steps:
- Collect dead flowers, fresh flowers, or cut flowers, white vinegar, a glass jar, and your favourite essential oil.
- Ensure the flowers are completely dry by placing them on paper towels in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Fill a glass jar with the dried flowers and cover them with white vinegar.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a dark, cool place for up to two weeks.
- After two weeks, strain the vinegar to remove the flowers, transferring the infused vinegar to a clean container.
- Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to the vinegar for enhanced fragrance.
- To make, store, and use the cleaner, mix one part flower-infused vinegar with one-part distilled water in a spray bottle.
- Store the cleaner in a cool, dark place to preserve its effectiveness.
- To use, shake the bottle well and spray the cleaner onto surfaces. Wipe with a clean cloth to remove dirt and grime.
This natural cleaner is ideal for kitchen counters, bathroom surfaces, and other household areas, providing a safe and effective cleaning solution. Making your own floral surface cleaner helps maintain a clean home and repurposes dead flowers in a sustainable and aromatic way.
Conclusion On What To Do With Wilted Flowers
Wilted flowers need not be discarded, but instead, they can be transformed into a variety of beautiful and useful creations. We encourage you to experiment with these projects, discover your personal favourites, and appreciate the value of creativity and sustainability that wilted flowers bring.
From crafting a gift to enhancing your home dƩcor to simply finding a new hobby, these ideas allow you to bring new life to what many might consider the end of the line for flowers.
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Whether you choose our limited edition everlasting flower arrangement for all occasions or opt for our fresh hydrangeas vase wrap as a birthday gift, The Daily Blooms provide exceptional floral products with free same-day delivery.
Shop now for our range of flower boxes and discover the perfect floral gift for any occasion. Remember, each bloom is selected for its beauty and lasting freshness, ensuring that your gift continues to inspire and delight long after the flowers are received.
Frequently Asked Questions On What To Do With Wilted Flowers
How Can I Preserve Wilted Flowers For Long-Term Use?
To preserve wilted flowers for long-term use, you can dry them using silica gel, which helps retain their shape and colour. Another method is air drying, where flowers are hung upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area for several weeks.
Pressing flowers between heavy books or using a flower press is also effective, especially for creating flat, long-lasting decorations like pressed flower art.
What Types Of Wilted Flowers Are Best For Making Floral Wreaths?
Wilted flowers that retain their colour and structure well, such as roses, lavender, and daisies, are ideal for making floral wreaths. These flowers dry beautifully and maintain their aesthetic appeal over time.
Additionally, incorporating other foliage like eucalyptus or ferns can add texture and fullness to your wreath, creating a balanced and visually pleasing arrangement.
When Should I Use A Floral Press Instead Of A Book To Press Flowers?
A floral press should be used instead of a book when you need to press multiple flowers at once or when dealing with thicker flowers that require more even pressure.
Floral presses are designed to distribute pressure evenly, ensuring better preservation of the flowers' shape and colour. This method is particularly useful for delicate or larger blooms that might not press as well under the uneven weight of a book.
Why Is It Important To Ensure Wilted Flowers Are Free From Pesticides Before Using Them In Crafts?
Ensuring wilted flowers are free from pesticides is crucial to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, which can be particularly concerning if the crafts are handled frequently or used in personal care products.
Pesticides can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other health issues. Moreover, using pesticide-free flowers in crafts like soaps, scrubs, or edible decorations ensures they are safe for both the maker and the recipient.