Ever wished your beautiful flowers could last a little longer? Well, you're not alone! Dried and preserved flowers are making a comeback, offering a long-lasting way to enjoy nature's beauty in your home. These beauties boast not only extended lifespans but also a unique aesthetic and eco-friendly benefits.
But, what are the differences between dried and preserved flowers?
1. Process:
- Dried flowers: Undergo a natural process of dehydration. This can involve air drying, hanging them upside down, or using silica gel.
- Preserved flowers: Involve a more technical approach. The flowers are typically cut at their peak bloom and then have their moisture replaced with a preserving solution, often glycerin.
2. Appearance:
- Dried flowers: Tend to shrink and lose some of their vibrant colour as they dry. They can become brittle and delicate.
- Preserved flowers: Maintain a more natural look and feel, resembling fresh flowers in colour, shape, and suppleness. Dyes can also be used to enhance or alter the colours.
3. Lifespan:
- Dried flowers: Last for a few months to a year, depending on the type of flower and care. They require gentle handling to avoid crumbling.
- Preserved flowers: Can last significantly longer, typically between 1-35 years depending on the preservation method. They are generally more resilient than dried flowers.
Discover a more detailed discussion about the life span of dried & preserved flowers here!
4. Care:
- Dried flowers: Need minimal care. Avoid direct sunlight and high humidity, which can accelerate fading and crumbling.
- Preserved flowers: Don't require watering or special handling. However, it's still best to keep them out of direct sunlight and high humidity for optimal longevity.
5. Cost:
- Dried Flowers: Generally less expensive due to the simpler process.
- Preserved Flowers: Can be pricier due to the additional steps and materials involved in preservation.
In Conclusion:
- Dried flowers: Natural process, shorter lifespan, less vibrant colours, more delicate.
- Preserved flowers: Technical process, longer lifespan, maintains fresh-like appearance, more resilient.
Either dried or preserve is a great way to have a long lasting piece of floral decoration in your living space. Discover the Preserved & Dried Flowers Collection here!
Popular Everlasting Blooms:
The world of dried and preserved flowers offers a stunning variety for every taste. Here are some popular picks:
- Classics with Character: Lavender, with its calming fragrance and beautiful purple hues, is a timeless choice. Hydrangeas retain their voluminous blooms in stunning muted tones, while roses and baby's breath add a touch of romance.
- Earthy Elegance: For a rustic touch, consider eucalyptus with its silvery-green leaves and refreshing scent. Bunny tails (Lagurus ovatus) add a playful texture with their fluffy white appendages.
- Everlasting Australian Natives: Australia boasts a unique selection of dried flowers perfect for a touch of down-under flair. Everlasting daisies come in vibrant pinks and yellows, while kangaroo paw displays its fascinating claw-like form. Banksia, with its spikey cones and rich textures, adds a touch of drama.
DIY Delights: Preserving Your Own Blooms:
The beauty of dried flowers doesn't stop at purchasing them pre-made. You can preserve your own blooms at home! Here are some basic methods:
- Air Drying: This simple method works well for sturdy flowers like lavender, hydrangeas, and celosia. Simply tie the stems together and hang them upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for several weeks.
- Pressing: This technique is ideal for delicate flowers. Place the blooms between sheets of absorbent paper (parchment or blotting paper) and weigh them down with heavy books for a few weeks.
- Silica Gel: For faster drying and better color retention, use silica gel desiccant. Cover the flowers completely with the gel in an airtight container and let them sit for a few days, depending on the size and thickness of the blooms.
Remember: When drying flowers yourself, choose blooms at their peak freshness and remove any leaves that might touch the flower head to prevent them from browning.
By following these tips and exploring the vast variety of dried and preserved flowers available, you can bring a touch of everlasting beauty and eco-friendly charm into your home!