Wreaths—a collection of dried plants hanging over a doorway, perhaps evoking the ease of fall or the longing for a handmade holiday. But the truth is, these delicate preparations have a history as old as civilization itself, with significance that spans culture, botany and time. From the ancient Romans to today’s home decorators, the wreath has persisted as a symbol of the cycles of the seasons, of life and death, of renewal. So why, of all possible forms, does this circular motif continue to hold such fascination?
The shape of the crown shows the unbroken cycles of nature, but more than that, it shows how the plants in it change, as they dry and age. A garland promises life, growth, eternity—but it’s often made of things that are, in fact, past their prime.
Lavender: Continuing Elegance from Ancient Times to Modern Times
Take lavender, for example. Known for its sweet scent and beautiful purple spice, lavender has long been revered—not just as a perfume, but as a healing and sleep aid. Its charm is timeless, and perhaps that is why it is such a popular choice for wreaths. It retains its beauty long after it has been cut and dried. As the moisture evaporates, the lavender oil becomes more concentrated, deepening its aroma. There’s something sad about this transition—starting out as fresh mellows into something deeper, more complex, but less powerful. It’s the botanical equivalent of aging well.
Air-Drying Flowers
Dried flowers themselves may seem like the stuff of Victorian times, but there’s a quiet art—and yes, a little science—behind the practice. When the flowers are dry, the process is more than just dehydration; it is a biological change. Petals, leaves, and stems lose their moisture, but retain a form that is often softer, more complex than when they were alive. Each flower behaves differently—zinnias hold their shape with papery frailty, while strawflowers maintain a strong, lasting shine. Yes, the more concentrated lavender is, the stronger its oil becomes as its composition becomes stronger. The key to air drying is knowing the balance between water and air, between time and patience.
What we are left with is a paradox: dried flowers are both past their prime and at their best. In wreaths, this tension creates a subtle but dramatic display. It’s about celebrating the passage of time, not resisting it.
Why the Wreath Endures
So why do we keep making wreaths, year after year, season after season? Because a wreath—especially one made with dried botanicals—is more than just a decoration. It is a tribute to the cycles of nature, to the beauty of decay and change. In a world that is busy with new and passing things, making a dried flower crown is a conscious act. It’s about creating something that lasts, something that honors both the present and the past.
Each patch of lavender, each carefully placed zinnia, a small act of care, of intention. We take what used to be new, let it age, and make it permanent. And in doing so, we acknowledge that beauty is not always perfect. Sometimes, there is imperfection—the fading edges, faded colors, a gentle reminder that time has passed.
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