You don't need another spider plant, ficus tree, or fern to water, feed, and prune. Let self-sowing dried plants work for you instead. They can brighten a shelf or table all winter; then, when you tire of them next spring, they can be the first seeds you plant.

Gather dried herbs, weeds, pods, and flowers in your yard (or along the road) and preserve them separately in lidded glass jars. Using only one type of plant per jar saves you the hassle of composing a mixed arrangement that ends up looking like a heap of twigs. The only design work necessary is trimming the stems so they fit. Then close the jars so the arrangements stay dust-free — and your house remains allergen-free. Lavender, rose hips, and black-eyed Susans are still vibrant long after they have withered. As an added benefit, pennycress, goldenrod, Nigella pod, barley, and Avena oats will all self-sow in your garden if you toss them there strategically in the spring.

To Buy: If you don't trust yourself to pick pretty plants, order bundles from the Yankee Petaler ($2 to $7.50 per bunch, 888-822-1320, www.yankeepetaler.com). Shown here, from left: pennycress, Nigella pod, and barley.