Introduction to Sandakan's 8 Kinds of Cut Flowers Suitable for Dried Flowers, Beautiful!

Sandakan, a beautiful city with a rich floral ecosystem, offers an array of cut - flowers that are not only stunning in their fresh state but also make excellent dried specimens. Drying flowers is a wonderful way to preserve their natural beauty and enjoy them for an extended period. Here are eight kinds of cut flowers from Sandakan that are perfect for drying.

1. Statice

Statice is a popular choice for dried flower arrangements. It comes in various colors such as purple, pink, and white. The small, clustered flowers on long stems give it an airy and delicate look. In Sandakan, statice thrives in its local climate. To dry statice, simply hang the bunches upside down in a dry, well - ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once dried, it retains its vibrant color and shape, making it an ideal addition to any dried flower bouquet.

2. Lavender

Lavender is well - known for its charming purple spikes and its calming fragrance. In Sandakan, the local lavender varieties have a unique and intense aroma. When drying lavender, cut the stems when the flowers are in full bloom. Hang the lavender upside down in small bunches. Dried lavender can be used not only for decorative purposes but also for making sachets, adding a sweet fragrance to drawers and closets. Its dried form is just as beautiful, with the slender spikes maintaining their elegance.

3. Globe Amaranth

The globe amaranth has round, ball - shaped flower heads that come in bright colors like red, pink, and purple. These sturdy flowers are well - suited for drying. They can be dried by either hanging them upside down or pressing them between heavy books. Once dried, their spherical shape remains intact, and they can be arranged in vases or used in crafts such as wreath - making. The vivid colors of the globe amaranth add a pop of color to any dried flower display.

4. Bells of Ireland

Bells of Ireland are characterized by their unique, bell - shaped green calyxes. In Sandakan's environment, they grow with a lush and vibrant green color. These flowers dry relatively easily by hanging them upside down. Their long, upright stems and distinct shape make them stand out in a dried flower arrangement. They can be used to add height and an interesting texture to mixed bouquets.

5. Pampas Grass

Pampas grass is a dramatic addition to dried flower collections. With its large, fluffy plumes, it makes a bold statement. In Sandakan, the variety of pampas grass has long, flowing plumes. To dry pampas grass, cut the plumes at the right stage of maturity and hang them to dry. Once dried, they can be placed in large vases as a solo display or combined with other dried flowers for a more elaborate look.

6. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are beloved for their large, full flower heads. In Sandakan, there are different colors of hydrangeas, including blue, pink, and white. They can be dried by either air - drying them upright in a vase with a small amount of water or by the hanging method. Dried hydrangeas maintain their fullness, and their soft, muted colors after drying add a touch of elegance to any setting.

7. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is not only prized for its fresh, fragrant leaves but also for its suitability as a dried flower. In Sandakan, the local eucalyptus varieties have a distinct aroma. You can dry eucalyptus by hanging small bundles upside down. The dried leaves retain their gray - green color and can be used in dried flower arrangements to add a natural, earthy element.

8. Celosia

Celosia, also known as cockscomb due to its unique, crested shape, comes in vivid colors like red, orange, and yellow. In Sandakan, it grows vigorously. To dry celosia, hang the flowers upside down in a dark, dry place. The dried flowers keep their interesting shape and intense color, making them a great choice for adding a splash of color to dried floral compositions.

Questions and Answers

Question 1: How long does it usually take for these cut flowers from Sandakan to dry?

Answer: The drying time depends on the type of flower. For example, lavender may take about two to three weeks to dry, while statice can dry in about one to two weeks. Pampas grass may take a bit longer, around three to four weeks, as its plumes are thicker.

Question 2: Can I mix these dried flowers in a single arrangement?

Answer: Absolutely! Mixing different dried flowers from Sandakan like statice, lavender, and eucalyptus in an arrangement can create a beautiful and diverse look. You can play with colors, shapes, and textures to design a unique bouquet or display.

Question 3: Do I need any special equipment to dry these flowers?

Answer: No, most of these flowers can be dried without special equipment. You mainly need a dry, well - ventilated area away from direct sunlight and some twine or string to hang the flowers upside down if you choose the hanging method. For pressing (like with globe amaranth), you'll need heavy books.

Question 4: How can I store these dried flowers once they are dry?

Answer: You can store dried flowers in a cool, dry place. If you want to keep a bouquet, you can put it in a vase and cover it with a plastic bag to prevent dust. You can also store individual flowers in boxes or jars to protect them from damage.

Summary

Sandakan offers a wonderful selection of cut flowers that are well - suited for drying. Statice, lavender, globe amaranth, bells of Ireland, pampas grass, hydrangeas, eucalyptus, and celosia each have their own unique beauty. When dried, these flowers retain their colors and shapes to a large extent, allowing you to enjoy their natural charm for a long time. Drying these flowers can be a simple and rewarding process that involves basic methods like hanging or pressing. You can also use these dried flowers to create various decorative arrangements for your home or give as gifts. With the information provided about the drying process, mixing arrangements, equipment needed, and storage, you are well - equipped to start your dried flower journey with Sandakan's beautiful cut flowers.