Plumed celosias come in yellow, cream, orange, red, and pink. Strawberry Fields gomphrena The first true red gomphrena, this hybrid retains its color indefinitely in a bouquet. But the broad, white flower heads are worth the effort. For drying, cut flowers before the spiny, blue bracts open to reveal a brown hue inside. Because of high moisture content, dry blooms in a hot, ventilated area to prevent mold growth.
Many everlastings have papery blooms even when they're growing.
These flowers readily air-dry hung from racks or rafters. Once you have the hang of it, branch out to other bloomers. With the desiccant silica gel, there's no reason to pass over any flower. Whatever drying method you choose, pick blooms at their peak. Any basket, crock, or vase can be used for displaying dried flowers.