How flowers are dried and preserved
Dried flowers have been appreciated since biblical times. Interest in dried flowers emerged in recent years as part of boho-inspired décor along with other nostalgic trends. Dried flowers had another resurgence in 2020 when fresh flowers were difficult to come by.
Dried flowers are more fragile than preserved. Many are bleached and dyed. Because these are real, natural plants that grew in soil, their natural texture comes alive in brilliant color and sunlight.
Flowers that dry beautifully include:
- Bougainvillea
- Hydrangea
- Koala Eucalyptus
- Protea
- Scabosia
That's because their texture can be appreciated when they are dried, especially in natural light. Dried flowers are harvested and hung upside down or dried with silica gel.
Preserved flowers are 100% natural plants that have undergone a process using glycerin, a natural compound derived from vegetable oils or animal fats to maintain their beauty. Glycerin is a sugar substitute safe for human consumption.
Without the need for light, water or pruning, preserved flowers and plants are an excellent, maintenance-free choice.
Preserved flowers differ from dried in their appearance. Preserved flowers are soft to the touch and retain color and texture for years.
Some plants preserve beautifully. They include:
- Olive branches
- Eucalyptus
- Gerbera daisy
- Chrysanthemum
- Roses
- Asparagus grass
- Climbing vines
- Ferns
Preserved plants are harvested at their peak of beauty. The freshly harvested plant enters the process.
The preservation liquid replaces the sap and water within the plant, effectively forming a still-image of nature. Preserved flowers and plants remain beautiful and unchanged for months without watering or light and are virtually maintenance-free.
The method of preserving flowers and plants has existed for years but was first patented as an industrial process 30 years ago by Verdissimo (https://www.verdissimo.com/en/) a pioneer in flower preservation.
