Floral Trends: Dried and Preserved Flowers

Dried or preserved flower arrangements are shaping up to be one of the biggest floral trends this year. They are a great alternative to fresh flowers – and not just because they last longer. I have been getting lots of inquiries about dried flowers, so I have pulled together some FAQs about how they can be used and cared for.

Oh, and one of my favourite things about dried/preserved flowers is being able to combine them with the power of aromatherapy, using essential oil blends to scent the arrangements.  I’ve included some of my favourite blends at the end of this article.

If you have any questions or ideas about a floral arrangement you want to discuss, get in contact and I can help you make your dreams blossom into reality!

What is the difference between dried and preserved flowers?

Dried flowers are fresh flowers that have had the moisture removed through a natural dehydration process (such as hanging them upside down).

Preserved flowers have had the moisture in the flowers and foliage replaced with glycerine. This makes them look and feel more like fresh flowers.

Both dried and preserved flowers can be dyed to make the colours more vibrant. The colours of both will fade over time.

Why choose dried or preserved flowers over fresh?

There are many benefits to using dried or preserved flowers instead of fresh:

1. They last longer (min 12 months, depending on flowers used. Preserved flowers can last up to three years and in a sealed case could last up to 10 years)
2. They are low maintenance – they don’t need watering, recutting of stems or flower food
3. They are great for people with hay fever/allergies – dried flowers have no pollen, so won’t irritate allergies
4. They are not limited by seasonal availability – most flowers and foliage will be available all year round
5. They can be dyed to suit different colour schemes
6. They can be prepared much further in advance, giving more flexibility in ordering and delivery (a bonus for big events and weddings)
7. They can be infused with essential oils so they still carry a beautiful scent – and you can customise that scent to suit the occasion (like Christmas) or recipient!

What flowers are available for dried flower arrangements?

Almost all types of flowers and foliage are available dried or preserved. If you have a type of flower or arrangement in mind, give me a call and we can discuss the best options.

There are some flowers which are better suited to drying, including Celosia, Echinacea, Gypsophila, Hydrangea, Larkspur, Lavender, Protea, Rose, Salvia, Sea Holly and Statice. Many native Australian flowers are great for dried arrangements, including Banksia, Waratah, Wattle and Eucalyptus leaves for foliage. Grasses and ferns are great for drying too. Flowers and foliage with thicker stems are better because it helps to avoid them snapping.

How do I care for my dried or preserved flowers?

Dried and preserved flowers are low maintenance, and proper care can extend their vibrancy. Humidity is the biggest factor influencing the condition and lifespan of your dried flower arrangement.

To preserve your floral arrangement in its best condition, keep in mind these four tips:

1. Do not water them!
2. Handle them very carefully – dried flowers are particularly fragile
3. Keep out of direct sunlight, wind and high humidity – avoid keeping them in the bathroom or kitchen
4. If they get dusty, you can use a hairdryer on the cool setting to blow the dust off
   

Recommended essential oil blends for dried flower arrangements

I am a huge fan of essential oils. They have such power to shape our mood and energy.

Over the past few years, I have experimented with a bunch of different scent combinations. Here are my favourites, but you can create any blend to infuse into your arrangement:

“Be kind to yourself”

Rose, Jasmine, Bergamot, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Cinnamon and Vetiver

“Rest and recover”

Lavender, Cedarwood, Ho Wood, Ylang Ylang, Marjoram, Vetiver, Vanilla and Hawaiian Sandalwood

“Be Inspired”

Jasmine, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Cardamom, Ginger, Clove and Damiana.

“Cheer up”

Orange, Lemon, Star Anise,  Clove, Nutmeg, Vanilla, Ginger and Cinnamon.

The possibilities are endless with dried and preserved floral arrangements. From small posies to large bouquets, office decoration to wedding décor, and anything in between!

If this has inspired you to design a dried or preserved floral arrangement then get in touch and let’s chat about how to make your dream blossom into reality!