Over the spring and summer, I spent quite a bit of time experimenting with different ways to preserve the beauty of the flowers growing here at the farm. I wanted to find natural, time-tested methods that would allow me to enjoy these blooms long after their growing season had passed. From pressing to hanging and air-drying, it has been such a joy to discover just how many flowers lend themselves to preserving.
Some of my favorites have been violets, strawflower, scabiosa, eucalyptus, lavender, poppy seed pods, sun ball flowers, grasses, and larkspur. Each one preserves a little differently, but many hold onto their lovely colors for months. The pinks, yellows, purples, and whites soften into more muted, earthy hues, giving them a beauty all their own.
I've been having so much fun dreaming up ways to incorporate these preserved flowers into special little treasures. This season, you'll find them making their way into pumpkin arrangements, pressed flower ornaments, handmade and hand-stamped cards, and other one-of-a-kind gifts. It's a lovely way to carry a bit of the garden with us through the quieter months.
And for those of you who aren't quite ready to say goodbye to fresh flowers, don't worry! There's already a little springtime magic happening behind the scenes. I'm working on forcing tulips for Valentine's Day, bringing a touch of spring into the heart of winter. Right now, they're tucked into soil in the refrigerator, resting in the cold and dark while they establish healthy root systems. It's always exciting to watch this process unfold and know that fresh blooms are waiting just around the corner.
The farm stand will be open Fridays through Sundays throughout the season, with preserved flower gifts and winter treats to enjoy. You'll find us on Littlerock Road in Tumwater, just south of Tumwater Middle School on the southbound side.
I hope you'll stop by, say hello, and take home a little piece of the garden. There's still plenty of beauty to be found, even in the quietest season of the year!
