Flower Preservation: What You Need to Know

Fresh flowers have the unique ability to brighten up our spaces and add a touch of natural beauty to our lives. However, as much as we adore them, flowers eventually wilt away. The good news is that there are many creative flower preservation techniques to preserve their memories forever.

In this guide, we'll explore eco-friendly flower preservation techniques, including drying flowers, pressing flowers, and drying flowers for resin. We'll also provide tips on how to keep your flowers fresh for longer.

How to Dry Flowers for Preservation

Air drying is a traditional method of preserving flowers that works wonders for robust blossoms like roses, lavender, and baby's breath. To air dry flowers, follow these steps:

1. Strip excess foliage from the flowers.
2. Cut stems to your desired length, leaving at least 6 inches.
3. Tie the stems together with rubber bands or twine if you have a bouquet.
4. Hang the bouquet upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Keep it there for approximately two to three weeks.
5. After drying, spray the flowers with unscented hairspray for protection.

How to Dry Roses

Roses hold a special place in our hearts, making them popular candidates for preservation. To dry rose petals and roses, follow these steps:

1. Carefully remove thorns, leaves, or damaged petals from the rose.
2. Choose from three preservation methods: drying the rose petals, pressing the whole rose, or framing the rose.
3. For dried petals, gently pluck them from the rose and lay them in a single layer on a clean, dry surface. Allow them to air dry in a cool, dark place for about two weeks, then store them in an airtight container.
4. To press the whole rose, place it between layers of absorbent paper within the pages of a heavy book. Allow it to press for two to three weeks until fully dry.
5. If you wish to frame the preserved rose, select an appropriate frame, place the pressed rose inside, secure it, and seal it properly to protect it from dust and moisture.

How to Press Flowers for Framing

Pressing flowers is a simple yet effective way to preserve their beauty. To press flowers for framing, follow these steps:

1. Lay the flowers between two sheets of absorbent paper.
2. Place them within the pages of a heavy book.
3. Let the flowers dry for three to four weeks.
4. Once pressed, you can frame them, use them in crafts, scrapbooking, or even make pressed flower candles.

How to Dry Flowers for Resin

Drying flowers for resin is an excellent way to capture their beauty within a transparent medium. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Carefully detach the flowers from their stems, if necessary.
2. Lay them in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined tray.
3. Allow the flowers to air dry in a cool, dry area for about two weeks, avoiding direct sunlight and humidity.
4. Prepare a clean and well-ventilated workspace, covering surfaces to catch any resin spills.
5. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and preparing the resin. Typically, this involves combining the resin and hardener in the correct proportions.
6. Pour a small amount of resin into your chosen mold or bezel to create a base layer.
7. Gently place the dried flowers onto this resin layer, arranging them as desired.
8. Carefully pour more resin over the flowers to fully submerge them.
9. Cover the mold or bezel to protect it from dust and let the resin cure as per the manufacturer's instructions.
10. Once cured, trim any excess resin, and sand the edges. If you are creating jewelry, attach the necessary components.

How to Keep Flowers Fresh for Longer

If you want to extend the lifespan of your fresh flowers, try the following tips:

• Trim the stems regularly to allow better water absorption.
• Change the water every two days to prevent bacterial growth.
• Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Use flower food or a homemade solution of sugar, vinegar, and water to nourish your blooms.

Final Words on Flower Preservation

In conclusion, knowing how to preserve flowers, whether for wedding bouquet preservation or crafting pressed flower art, can help you make the most of your blooms.

By following these flower preservation techniques, you can enjoy the beauty of your flowers for a lifetime! Flower preservation also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly future by making the most of nature's gifts.

Ready to brighten your indoor spaces with fresh blooms? Shop fresh flower bouquets with same-day delivery in Toronto, Vaughan, and the GTA.