preserved flowers They offer the beauty and freshness of natural flowers but with spectacular durability, making them the preferred option for those seeking a permanent floral display in their home or office without having to change the bouquet every few days. Learning how to properly care for preserved flowers is essential to keeping them beautiful for as long as possible.
What exactly are preserved flowers?
An preserved flower It is a completely natural flower that has undergone a specific preservation process to maintain its appearance, texture, and color for months or even years. Unlike dried flowers, preserved flowers retain a much fresher appearance and flexible, similar to that of a freshly cut flower.
The preservation process consists of cutting the flower at its peak, dehydrating it by removing most of the water using methods such as freeze-drying, and replacing the natural sap with a mixture of glycerin and other completely harmless compounds. This substance penetrates the plant structure and stabilizes it, so that the flower not only does not wither, but can maintain its shape, color and sometimes even part of its natural fragrance for a long time.
The final result is a natural flower It doesn't need water to survive and is indistinguishable from fresh fruit at first glance, either in appearance or feel. Furthermore, during the treatment, pigments can be added that enhance or modify the color to create more vibrant and eye-catching combinations.
Not all floral species can be successfully preserved. The most common are roses, hydrangeas, lavender, eucalyptus, craspedia and some varieties of daisies and orchids. These flowers can be used individually or in bouquets and arrangements that combine different shades, textures, and sizes, often alongside dried flowers to create unique and personal decorative arrangements.
Advantages of preserved flowers over fresh ones
Opting for preserved flowers presents several notable advantages Regarding traditional fresh flowers:
- Long duration: If you take care of them properly, they can stay in good condition for one to three years or even longer.
- Low maintenance: You don't need to water them, trim stems, or refill the vase.
- Temperature resistance: They tolerate moderate heat and cold better, as long as they are not extreme.
- Sustainability: Reduced water consumption and waste reduction by avoiding frequent branch changes.
- Variety: Possibility of choosing from a wider range of colors thanks to the pigments added during the process.
Therefore, They are ideal for decorating any space for a long time., assuming a profitable and sustainable investment.
How long can preserved flowers last?
The durability of preserved flowers depends on several factors, mainly the environment in which they are located and the care they receive. Under optimal conditions, they can look perfect for months or even years. In general, it's common for them to begin to slightly fade from their original tone over time, especially if they've been exposed to direct sunlight.
However, a well-cared-for preserved flower can maintain its structural charm and much of its color for two or even three years. After that, the loss will be gradual and slow; you can decide for yourself when it's time to replace the decoration.
How to care for your preserved flowers so they last longer
Preserved flowers are selected precisely because they require almost no daily maintenanceHowever, there are some key care and recommendations to keep them in good condition for as long as possible:
- Avoid direct sun exposure: Direct sunlight is the main factor that can deteriorate the color of preserved flowers. Ideally, place them in areas with indirect light, for example near a window, but filter the light with a sheer curtain, or in rooms with soft natural lighting. Direct sunlight will accelerate fading.
- Keep away from moisture and water sources: Humidity is the greatest enemy of these flowers. They should not be watered or sprayed under any circumstances, and it's best to avoid humid rooms like the bathroom or kitchen. If you live near the sea or in areas with high humidity, try to keep the arrangements in well-ventilated, dry rooms. silica gel near the flowers can be a good idea to absorb any excess moisture.
- Do not water or clean them with water: Never place a preserved bouquet in water, nor clean the stems or petals with liquid products. Direct exposure to water will cause them to rot or develop mold.
- Gently dust: It is common for some dust to accumulate on the surface of the flowers over time. You can remove it with a very soft duster, a paintbrush, or by gently blowing cool air from a hairdryer, holding it about 30 cm away to avoid damaging the petals or leaves. If you have compressed air, use it only at low pressure and sparingly.
Ideal places and decorative uses for preserved flowers
preserved flowers They not only serve as traditional bouquets for the dining room vase. They're an ideal choice for decorating any room:
- Living rooms and bedrooms: A composition in a beautiful vase enhances the warmth and style of the room, especially in romantic bedrooms.
- Crowns and centers: You can create preserved flower wreaths to hang on walls, doors, or as centerpieces, perfect even in small spaces like hallways or entryways.
- Lasting Gifts: A bouquet of preserved flowers is an original and eco-friendly gift for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and all kinds of celebrations.
- Event decoration: They are commonly used in table decorations, weddings, shop windows, and offices to provide naturalness and color without worrying about maintenance.
The price of these arrangements usually varies between 20 and 120 euros, depending on the size and variety of flowers used. This is an investment that pays off over time thanks to its durability and the ability to move your floral arrangement whenever you want to update your decor.
Frequently asked questions about caring for preserved flowers
- Should I water preserved flowers? Absolutely not, never apply water or spray moisture. Water only damages them.
- What should I do if I attract insects? You can use a moth repellent tablet at the base of the arrangement or apply a minimal amount of insecticide, always avoiding the petals.
- How to clean a preserved rose? Use a soft brush or cool air from a distance. Do not use water or liquid products.
- How long do they usually last? With proper care, they can last between one and three years. After that, wear is slow and gradual.
Factors that can reduce its useful life
- Excessively humid environments: They facilitate the growth of mold and accelerate deterioration. Always keep flowers in a dry, well-ventilated environment.
- Direct sunlight: It is the main cause of premature discoloration.
- Exposure to sources of intense heat or cold: Extreme temperatures affect the integrity of the flower and can cause it to crack, warp, or lose color.
- Excessive manipulation: Frequent contact tends to break the petals and deteriorate the flowers prematurely.