Preserved flowers are a great way to add a touch of natural beauty to your home or office. Not only do they last much longer than fresh flowers, but they also require minimal maintenance and care. However, to keep your preserved flowers looking their best, it’s important to know how to care for them properly. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about preserved flower care, including the basics of preserved flowers, the benefits of preserved flower care, and the best practices for preserving and maintaining your flowers.
What are Preserved Flowers?
Preserved flowers are real flowers that have been treated with a special solution to help them retain their natural beauty and shape. This process involves replacing the sap and water in the flowers with a mixture of glycerin, water, and other preservatives, which helps to maintain their natural colour, texture, and shape. Preserved flowers can last for several months or even years, depending on the quality of the preservation and the care that they receive.
Benefits of Preserved Flower Care
Preserved flower care offers several benefits over traditional fresh flower care, including:
- Longevity: Preserved flowers can last for months or even years, making them a great investment for long-term use.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike fresh flowers, preserved flowers require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for people who don’t have the time or skills to care for living plants.
- Cost-Effective: While preserved flowers may cost more than fresh flowers initially, their longevity and low maintenance make them more cost-effective in the long run.
- Versatility: Preserved flowers can be used for a variety of decorative purposes, including bouquets, centrepieces, wreaths, and more.
Best Practices for Preserving and Maintaining Your Flowers
Preserved flower care is relatively simple, but it’s important to follow a few basic guidelines to keep your flowers looking their best. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
- Keep them out of direct sunlight: Preserved flowers should be kept in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the flowers to fade and lose their colour and shape over time.
- Avoid high humidity: Preserved flowers can be damaged by excessive humidity, so it’s important to keep them in a dry environment. If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier or air conditioner to maintain a dry atmosphere.
- Handle with care: Preserved flowers are delicate and should be handled with care to avoid damaging their delicate petals and stems. Avoid touching or moving them unnecessarily, and be gentle when cleaning or dusting them.
- Dust them regularly: Dust can accumulate on preserved flowers over time, so it’s important to dust them regularly to keep them looking their best. Use a soft, dry brush or cloth to gently remove any dust or debris from the flowers.
- Avoid water and moisture: Preserved flowers are no longer living, so they do not require water or moisture. In fact, exposure to water or moisture can damage the flowers and cause them to lose their shape and colour. Be sure to keep your preserved flowers in a dry environment to avoid any moisture damage.
- Refresh with a preservative spray: Over time, the preservatives in preserved flowers may begin to break down, causing the flowers to lose their shape and color. To refresh your preserved flowers, consider using a preservative spray that is specially designed for preserved flowers. Simply spray the flowers lightly with the solution, being careful not to saturate them, and allow them to dry completely before handling.
- Store them properly: If you need to store your preserved flowers for an extended period of time, be sure to store them in a cool.