Flowers have long been cherished for their natural beauty and ephemeral charm. Preserving flowers after drying allows us to extend their lifespan and enjoy their aesthetic appeal for months or even years. Whether you’re a florist, a hobbyist, or someone who simply loves flowers, understanding the best techniques for preserving dried flowers is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various methods, tips, and tricks to help you preserve flowers effectively and maintain their allure.
Why Preserve Dried Flowers?
The practice of preserving dried flowers dates back centuries, rooted in both practical and sentimental reasons. From wedding bouquets and home decor to botanical studies and artistic endeavors, dried flowers serve a multitude of purposes:
Sentimental Value: Preserving flowers allows us to hold onto memories associated with special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, or milestones.
Decorative Purposes: Dried flowers can be used in various decorative arrangements, adding a touch of natural beauty to homes, events, and creative projects.
Botanical Study: Researchers and botanical enthusiasts preserve flowers for educational purposes, enabling detailed study and analysis.
Sustainability: By preserving dried flowers, we reduce waste and extend the usefulness of floral arrangements, contributing to sustainable practices.
See Also: How to Dry Tulip Flowers?
Techniques for Preserving Dried Flowers
Once flowers are dried, preserving them ensures they maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time. Different techniques are suitable depending on the type of flower and desired outcome:
1. Sealing with Wax
Wax sealing involves coating dried flowers with melted paraffin or beeswax to protect them from moisture and dust. Follow these steps for wax sealing:
Materials Needed: Dried flowers, wax (paraffin or beeswax), double boiler or microwave-safe container, tweezers or tongs.
Process:
- Melt the wax in a double boiler or microwave-safe container.
- Hold each flower gently with tweezers or tongs and dip it into the melted wax.
- Remove excess wax by gently shaking or tapping the flower.
- Place the wax-coated flower on wax paper to dry completely.
Tips: Ensure the wax is not too hot to avoid damaging delicate petals. Use a thin layer of wax for a natural appearance.
2. Glycerin Preservation
Glycerin is a substance that replaces water in plant tissues, preserving flowers’ suppleness and natural appearance. Follow these steps for glycerin preservation:
Materials Needed: Glycerin, water, bucket or container, pruning shears.
Process:
- Mix one part glycerin with two parts water in a bucket or container.
- Cut flower stems at an angle and place them in the glycerin solution.
- Leave flowers in the solution for 2-6 weeks, depending on the flower type and size.
- Remove flowers from the solution and let them air dry on newspaper until they reach the desired texture.
Tips: Glycerin-preserved flowers are flexible and may drip glycerin when first removed from the solution. Handle them carefully during drying.
3. Spray Sealants
Spray sealants provide a protective coating that enhances the durability of dried flowers. Choose a spray sealant formulated for preserving flowers to avoid yellowing or cracking over time. Follow these steps for using spray sealants:
Materials Needed: Spray sealant for flowers, dried flowers, well-ventilated area or outdoors.
Process:
- Place dried flowers on a protected surface in a well-ventilated area or outdoors.
- Hold the spray sealant can approximately 12 inches away from the flowers.
- Apply a light, even coat of sealant, covering all sides of the flowers.
- Allow the sealant to dry completely according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips: Test the spray sealant on a small part of a flower before applying it to the entire arrangement to ensure compatibility with the flower type.
Tips for Maintaining Preserved Flowers
Preserved flowers require care to ensure they remain attractive and retain their longevity. Consider the following tips:
1. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Display preserved flowers away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading and deterioration.
2. Handle with Care: Preserved flowers are delicate. Handle them gently to avoid breakage or damage.
3. Regular Dusting: Dust preserved flowers gently with a soft brush or hairdryer on a cool setting to remove dust buildup.
4. Avoid Humidity: Keep preserved flowers in a dry environment to prevent mold or mildew growth.
5. Storage: Store preserved flowers in a cool, dry place when not on display to maintain their appearance.
Conclusion
Preserving flowers after drying allows us to enjoy their beauty long after their natural lifespan would allow. Whether you choose wax sealing, glycerin preservation, or spray sealants, each method offers unique benefits for different types of flowers and desired outcomes. By following proper drying and preservation techniques, you can create stunning floral arrangements, keepsakes, and decorative pieces that bring the natural beauty of flowers into your home or special events. Embrace the art of preserving dried flowers to elevate your floral displays and cherish the memories they represent.
