DIY with Local Orchardgrass ~ Wreath
Images courtesy of Lisa Scherer
Orchardgrass can be found anywhere in Marianna, along roadways, in hayfields, and even in gardens before plowing. Every year, farmers cut this wild grass, and many other types, for livestock food. Orchardgrass is nutritious and highly palatable to cattle, sheep, and goats. In its early stage, it provides forage for other species including deer. It is native to Eurasia and North Africa, but orchardgrass has naturalized in many places and is considered invasive outside of its native range.
Every year West Beth Township cuts these "weeds" along roadsides, but before they do this people like me race to gather them for craft projects. Once this grass flowers, it is not good for drying; the time to collect it must be done within an earlier time frame just before full bloom.
The wreath seen here is fresh. It will dry naturally on a grapevine base. It dries to a lighter color of green and will last for months. Later, it will turn yellowish like straw, which is still very attractive, especially in the fall. During this time you can add dried flowers like sunflowers, rose hips, zinnias, and other dried flowers to make a wreath more beautiful.
The wreath is easy to make. Just overlap bundles all the way around the grapevine-going in the same direction- securing it with wire as you go.
Also, be sure to cut any wild grass for wreath-making, before the grain forms. This is to avoid moths.
Thanks for visiting!
Other Wreath DIY with non-local items:
