Preserving and storing flowers is a great way to save and cherish special memories from your garden or from special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings. Flowers have always been a beautiful way to commemorate any special event for centuries, and with proper caring, you can make sure that these special memories last even longer. In this article, we will discuss the many different methods and steps you can take when it comes to preserving and storing flowers to make sure they last for as long as possible.
Drying Flowers:
Drying is the most popular, time-worn method for preserving flowers. Drying the flowers is a relatively simple, yet effective, process. This process can be done with either natural or artificial methods.
Natural Drying
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Hang-Drying: Hang-drying is an easy way to dry flowers that require little to no effort. Select the flowers you wish to dry and cut the stems short. Hang the flowers upside down in an area with excellent air circulation and avoid direct sunlight.
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Air-Drying: If hang-drying is not an option, you can opt to air-dry the flowers instead. Choose your desired flowers and remove any excess foliage. Place the flowers on paper towels or newspaper and leave it in a cool, dry area with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight.
Artificial Drying
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Pressing: Pressing is a great way to preserve the look of a freshly picked flower. To do this, find a thin sheet of paper or fabric that will absorb any moisture from your chosen flower. Place the flower on the sheet, adjusting the petals as necessary. Place two or more paper towels or sheets of newsprint on top of the flower and then use something fairly heavy such as a book or phonebook to compress the flower and absorb the remaining moisture.
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Microwaving: Another way to dry flowers is with a microwave. This works best for flowers that require a quick-drying process, such as rose and iris blossoms. Start by placing the flowers onto a paper towel or microwavable bowl and add a few drops of water. Set the microwave for 30-second intervals, checking the blooms in between, and repeat process until the flowers are completely dry.
Storing Flowers:
There are a few different methods for storing flowers depending on the desired look and longevity needed.
Short-Term: For short-term storage, you can refrigerate cut flowers in an airtight container and they will usually last up to 2 weeks. Cut the stems short and allow the flowers to sit in cool water in the container to stay hydrated. Refresh the water daily and replace with cold water every few days.
Long-Term: For long-term storage, you may choose to freeze your flowers. This can be done either by flash-freezing a single stem or by sugar-preservation.
Flash-Freezing: If you wish to flash-freeze individual stems, be sure to pick the flowers when they are in the beginning or end of their bloom cycle. Cut the stem, dip the petals into a shallow dish of rubbing alcohol and let it sit for about a minute, then place the flowers onto a baking tray and place into the freezer for 3 to 4 hours. Once frozen, store in an airtight container.
Sugar-Preservation: For sugar-preservation, you will need a solution of 8 parts water and 2 parts sugar. Mix together in a container, and then place the cut flowers into the mixture. Allow it to sit for up to 24 hours. Once the flowers have fully absorbed the solution, carefully place each flower into an airtight container or plastic bag for long-term storage.
Preserving flowers is a great way to remember special occasions and to decorate your home with beautiful blooms anytime of the year. We hope you have found this article helpful and that you will now be able to properly preserve and store flowers to make sure they last longer. With the proper tools, knowledge, and method, you can make sure that any memory from any special event can last even longer.
