dried flowers hanging
March 22, 2022

What are dried and preserved flowers?

Dried and preserved flowers had become really popular in the last 2 years. They are a great piece of decor and they have become a favourite when buying flowers for birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions. They are super long-lasting, don't need water and require very little maintenance!

So the question is...what are they? and what's the difference between dried and preserved flowers?

The short answer to this frequently asked question is:

They are real flowers that have had their moisture removed and can last from months to years with no need for water!

This removal of moisture can be done by applying 2 different processes which will give 2 different types of flowers. The first ones will be:

1. Dried flowers: these blooms have gone through the most common drying process, which is hanging them upside down in a dark and dry place for 2 or 3 weeks. 

    After this time, the flowers are completely dried and ready to use in a bouquet or vase arrangement. The colour might change or fade a little bit as it is a natural product. They can be used as they are, or they can be dyed with natural pigments to obtain different colours and styles. 

    This method is easy, natural and convenient.

    Naturally, dried flowers are often used in rustic and boho-style floral arrangements. Sometimes the stems can be brittle and break easily, but overall they are a fantastic and beautiful option for floral styling.

    Some species will dry better than others and I'll be writing about it soon! Australian Native flowers are my favourites for drying!

     

    The second process of removing the moisture from the flowers, gives as a result:

    2. Preserved Flowers: these blooms have been cut at their best stage in life and undergone a rehydration process by being placed in a mixture of glycerine and alcohol for 5 to 10 days. At this stage, natural dyes can be used to add colour to the flowers. This solution is absorbed through the stem until it completely substitutes the sap of the flower.

     After that time, the flowers are removed from the solution and placed in a drying chamber at a monitored temperature to finalise the drying process. 

    The result is a more flexible flower with a natural appearance that will last for years to come!

    preserved pink hydrangea

    So, now you know what dried and preserved flowers are and their differences!

    The main thing is that they will not need water like fresh flowers and that they will last from months to years if they are placed out of the sun and away from humidity. 

    The variety and colours that are now available are huge, offering endless possibilities for flower arranging. And they are such a great investment, as they will last much more than a week like fresh flowers!

    Stay tuned to discover more interesting things about the world of dried and preserved florals. A world full of colours and textures that I would love to share with you!

    Anabella xx