How to preserve dried flowers like a pro

Dried flowers are a simple and easy way to preserve the beauty of blooms, whether they are picked from the garden, purchased from the farmers market, or in a bouquet for a special occasion.

Knowing how to store dried flowers is essential to preserving their color and texture. Here’s how to keep them fresh and looking great for years to come.

How to preserve dried flowers

Once you’ve dried your flowers by air-drying, dehydrating, or pressing, you have a few options. You can choose to display them like fresh flowers (minus the water, of course), turn them into crafts like wreaths or dried flower plaques, or store them for later use or as a keepsake.

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How to preserve small dried bundles

Store small dried flower bouquets carefully to avoid damage from light, disturbance, or infestation by beetles, cockroaches, or other pests. Make sure the flowers are completely dry before storing to avoid moisture retention, which can lead to mold growth.

Gently wrap the bouquet in kraft paper or newspaper and place them in an airtight container to avoid pests that may damage the plant parts.

You can place small bouquets of dried flowers in airtight plastic containers or bins, or use zip-top plastic freezer bags to keep out pests.

Place the bagged flowers in a shoe box or other structured container to avoid crushing. Add silica gel packets or other desiccant to absorb any excess moisture.

Store small bouquets in a cool, dry, dark place, away from sunlight as sunlight can cause flowers to fade prematurely.

How to preserve dried wedding flowers and decorative items

Proper storage is even more important to keep these special dried flowers intact for larger bouquets and bouquets at weddings, funerals, anniversaries or other occasions. First, make sure your flowers are completely dry before storing.

Some florists recommend spraying dried keepsake bouquets with unscented hairspray, opaque acrylic sealer, or a spray specifically designed to preserve dried flowers. The latter often contain ingredients that protect the flowers from UV rays and help preserve their color.

Store large bouquets wrapped in kraft paper or newspaper in airtight plastic containers. Keep them in a cool, dry, dark place like the back of a closet to protect the flowers from damaging light.

Desiccants such as silica gel will help keep the storage environment dry.

Avoid storing dried bouquets in damp places like basements. You may also want to work with a local artist who can use some or all of your bouquet to create a mosaic or other decorative keepsake to honor your special occasion.

Ask them to mount it in a case with UV-protective glass to prevent fading and discoloration.

Why should you store dried flowers?

• For sentimental value: You may want to save dried flowers from a special occasion for later use, or simply to have something to remind you of an event or person.
• To prepare for display: If you want to display or use your dried flowers in the future, you will want to keep them in the best possible condition during that time.
• To give as a gift: If you are planning to give a loved one a gift of dried flowers, it is important to store them safely once they are dry.

How long do dried flowers last?

You can expect properly stored and long-lasting dried flowers like roses, lavender, hydrangeas, and baby’s breath to last two to three years before showing signs of aging.

However, dried bouquets can last longer if prepared and stored properly.

How to keep dried flowers from spoiling

• Dry the flowers completely before storing. Use a desiccant to absorb any excess moisture.
• Store dried flowers in an airtight container to protect them from pests.
• Place dried flowers in a safe place to protect them from light, moisture or breakage.
• Treat bouquets with dry flower spray to prolong their life and protect them from harmful UV rays.