Silica & String: Hands-On Flower Drying Workshop

Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa offers a hands-on flower drying workshop that turns fresh-cut blooms into lasting keepsakes. On Monday afternoons visitors gather in the Gardens' studio to learn silica-gel and traditional hang-drying methods from Plant Preservationists. This workshop is held at Reiman Gardens, located on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Iowa, offering an intimate look at the greenhouse, display beds, and the team’s seasonal dried-holiday tree project.

The class begins with a short demonstration of silica drying—how different flower shapes and thicknesses react to silica gel, how to pack blooms for preservation, and how to speed color retention. Participants receive fresh-cut flowers from Reiman Gardens and a take-home container of silica gel to begin their own specimens. The workshop also covers hang-drying: selecting stems, tying bundles, and choosing suitable air circulation and light conditions.

In addition to technique, instructors explain how garden-grown species—delicate zinnias, sturdy statice, and frilly yarrow—respond differently to each method, and how foliage textures add sculptural interest. What makes this experience unusual in the Midwest is its direct connection to a public garden’s conservation and display program. You’ll see the drying station used to stage the Gardens’ annual dried-holiday tree and watch how curators choose stems to preserve seasonal color and silhouette.

The session blends craft, botany, and sustainable reuse: instead of buying preserved stems, you learn to rely on locally grown material and low-waste workflows. This workshop is well suited to gardeners, craft-makers, and anyone who wants to extend the season of Iowa’s prairie blooms. It’s hands-on but low-impact physically—bring a willingness to get your hands dusty and an eye for composition.

Supplies are included, and you leave with preserved material and step-by-step knowledge to continue at home. Practical notes: the event runs for three hours in the afternoon; check Reiman Gardens’ calendar for dates and ticketing. Parking and café options are available on site; accessibility details should be confirmed with the Gardens if you have mobility concerns.

Reiman Gardens functions as a community education resource in Ames and this class is a model of how public gardens can translate horticulture into accessible skills. Expect to leave with multiple preserved stems suitable for small arrangements, a mini silica kit to continue experiments at home, and clear drying schedules for different species. Instructors answer questions about humidity control, color preservation, and long-term storage.

Whether you're making ornaments, wreath accents, or botanical art, the hands-on format accelerates learning. Tickets sell out for dates—book early through Reiman Gardens' booking link and plan to arrive early to settle.