How To Save Flowers

Saving flowers can be a wonderful way to preserve their beauty and sentimental value. There are several methods to save flowers, each with its own advantages. Here are some of the most common techniques:

1. Air Drying

Air drying is one of the simplest and most popular methods of preserving flowers.

Steps:

1. Choose: Select fresh flowers that are just starting to open.
2. Prep: Remove any excess foliage from the stems.
3. Bundle: Gather the flowers into small bunches and secure them with a rubber band or string.
4. Hang: Hang the bunches upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area. A closet or attic often works well.
5. Wait: Allow the flowers to dry for 2-3 weeks.

2. Pressing

Pressing flowers is ideal for creating flat, long-lasting keepsakes.

Steps:

1. Select: Choose flowers that are not too thick.
2. Trim: Cut the stems close to the base of the flower.
3. Prepare: Place the flowers between two pieces of parchment paper.
4. Press: Put the parchment paper in a heavy book or use a flower press.
5. Wait: Leave them for 2-4 weeks, checking occasionally to ensure they’re drying properly.

3. Silica Gel

Using silica gel can help retain the color and shape of the flowers.

Steps:

1. Choose: Select fresh flowers.
2. Prep: Trim the stems.
3. Fill: Pour a layer of silica gel crystals into a container.
4. Arrange: Place the flowers on the silica gel, then gently pour more gel over them, making sure they are fully covered.
5. Seal: Close the container and leave it for about a week.
6. Retrieve: Carefully remove the flowers and brush off any excess gel.

4. Microwave Drying

This is a quicker version of the silica gel method but requires careful attention.

Steps:

1. Select: Pick fresh flowers.
2. Prep: Trim the stems.
3. Fill: Place a layer of silica gel in a microwave-safe container.
4. Arrange: Place the flowers on top and gently cover them with more silica gel.
5. Heat: Microwave in 30-second intervals, checking after each interval, until the flowers are dry (generally takes 1-3 minutes).
6. Cool: Let the container cool before carefully removing the flowers.

5. Using Glycerin

Glycerin can help maintain the softness and flexibility of flowers.

Steps:

1. Select: Choose fresh flowers.
2. Prep: Mix 1 part glycerin with 2 parts warm water.
3. Dip: Submerge the stems in the mixture.
4. Wait: Leave the flowers in the glycerin solution for 2-3 weeks.

6. Waxing

Dipping flowers in paraffin wax can keep them looking fresh for a few weeks.

Steps:

1. Melt: Melt paraffin wax in a double boiler.
2. Dip: Dip the flowers quickly into the wax.
3. Cool: Hang or place them on wax paper to cool.

Tips and Warnings:

• Location: Always dry flowers in a dark, well-ventilated area to prevent mold growth and color fading.
• Handling: Handle dried flowers carefully as they can be brittle.
• Protection: Consider using a clear sealant spray for extra protection once the flowers are dried.

By using one or more of these methods, you can enjoy the beauty of your flowers for a much longer time.