There’s something refreshing about September. Mornings are a little cooler, the markets are overflowing with seasonal treasures, and our homes start to shift into cozy fall mode. One of the easiest ways to bring the season indoors is with a handmade wreath, and dried wheat is a beautiful, and inexpensive material for fall. Add a beautiful ribbon in warm autumn tones, and you’ve got a piece that feels both timeless and festive.
And while we’re creating, we can’t help but mention that figs are also abundant right now. Fresh figs are one of those fleeting pleasures of early fall, and we love using them in simple, delicious ways — but more on that after we make a wreath.
How to Make a Dried Wheat Wreath
Supplies:
- A wire or straw wreath form (14 inch works well)
- Bundles of dried wheat stalks (available on Amazon or farmers markets)
- Floral wire
- Floral cutters or sharp scissors
- Hot glue gun (optional)
- A wide fall ribbon (think burnt orange plaid, antique blue, or moss green)
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Prepare Your Wheat: Trim wheat stalks into even lengths, about 8–10 inches. Gather small bunches (about 10 stalks each).
- Attach the Wheat: Starting on the outer edge of your wreath form, lay down one bunch of wheat at an angle and secure tightly with floral wire.
- Layer and Overlap: Place the next bunch so it overlaps the stems of the first, continuing around the wreath in the same direction. Repeat until the form is covered.
- Fill in Gaps: Tuck in smaller pieces of wheat where needed. Use hot glue for extra hold.
- Add the Ribbon: Tie a large bow at the top or side. Let the ends trail down for a softer look.
- Hang and Enjoy: Display on your front door, over a mantel, or even as a centerpiece laid flat with candles in the center.
The beauty of a wheat wreath is that it lasts for years if stored carefully in a dry space. It’s a one-time effort that pays off season after season.
Fresh Figs: The Flavors of Fall
Now onto figs — because honestly, they deserve their moment in the spotlight. When figs are fresh, ripe, and in season, there are endless ways to enjoy them:
- With Whipped Goat Cheese & Prosciutto: Split figs in half, spread with creamy goat cheese, and wrap in prosciutto. A perfect bite for entertaining.
- Cambozola & Honey: Top figs with creamy Cambozola cheese and a drizzle of honey for an indulgent treat.
- In a Fall Salad: Toss halved figs with mixed greens, candied pecans, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Homemade Fig Jam: Cook figs with brown sugar, cinnamon and lemon juice until thickened. Add vanilla. Spread on toast or add to your fall charcuterie boards. Fig jam also makes a thoughtful fall gift when packaged in small jars with ribbon.
Figs and wheat might seem like two very different things, but both remind us to slow down, savor the season, and create traditions that carry us through autumn.
