Fresh flowers bring colour and warmth into the home, but they don’t always last as long as we’d like. Knowing how to preserve flowers helps extend their life, whether they’re part of a bouquet, a wreath or a seasonal arrangement.
This guide explains simple ways to preserve flowers, how to care for dried and preserved arrangements, and when faux flowers offer a practical, long-term solution.
Why preserve flowers?
Preserving flowers allows you to enjoy arrangements for longer, reducing waste and helping seasonal pieces last beyond their original purpose.
People often preserve flowers to:
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keep bouquets from special occasions
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extend the life of wreaths or arrangements
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reuse flowers for styling throughout the year
Understanding the right method for each type of flower makes preservation more successful.
How to preserve flowers by drying
Air drying flowers
Air drying is one of the simplest ways to preserve flowers. This method works best for sturdy blooms with lower moisture content.
To air dry flowers:
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tie small bunches together
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hang them upside down in a dry, dark space
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allow several weeks for full drying
Air-dried flowers suit rustic arrangements and seasonal displays.
Pressing flowers
Pressing flowers is ideal for flatter blooms or decorative projects. While not suitable for full arrangements, pressed flowers work well for framed displays or small decorative uses.
This method preserves shape but removes volume, making it more decorative than practical for everyday styling.
Caring for dried and preserved flowers
Once flowers are dried or preserved, proper care helps them last longer.
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Keep them away from direct sunlight
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Avoid high humidity
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Dust gently rather than using water
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Handle minimally to prevent breakage
Preserved flowers are more delicate than fresh ones, so placement matters.
How to preserve wreaths and seasonal arrangements
Wreaths are often made with dried or preserved elements, which means they can last for years if cared for properly.
To preserve wreaths:
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store them in a dry, well-ventilated space
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avoid damp areas such as garages or sheds
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keep them out of prolonged sunlight
Dried wreaths are particularly suited to seasonal styling and can be reused year after year with the right care.
When faux flowers are the better option
In some cases, preserving fresh flowers simply isn’t practical. This is where faux flowers become a valuable alternative.
Faux flowers:
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require no maintenance
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don’t fade or deteriorate
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work well for permanent displays
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are ideal for hard-to-reach areas
For wreaths, mantel displays and everyday styling, faux flowers offer the look of fresh blooms without the need for preservation.
Using faux flowers alongside preserved flowers
Faux flowers don’t need to replace preserved flowers entirely. Many homes use a combination of both.
For example:
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dried wreaths for seasonal displays
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faux flowers for year-round arrangements
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preserved flowers for occasional styling
This approach keeps your home looking fresh while reducing the need for constant replacements.
Styling preserved and faux flowers in the home
Whether you’re using preserved or faux flowers, styling makes all the difference.
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Use neutral vases to let flowers stand out
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Group arrangements in odd numbers
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Mix textures rather than colours
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Avoid overcrowding displays
These simple styling choices help arrangements feel intentional rather than artificial.
Related guides you may find useful
If you’re styling or preserving flowers, you may also find these guides helpful:
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Final thoughts
Knowing how to preserve flowers allows you to enjoy arrangements for longer, whether they’re dried, preserved or replaced with long-lasting faux alternatives.
Choosing the right approach depends on how the flowers are used, where they’re displayed and how much maintenance you want to manage. With thoughtful care and styling, both preserved and faux flowers can play a lasting role in your home.
FAQs
How long do preserved flowers last?
Preserved flowers can last months or even years when kept away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Can all flowers be air dried?
Not all flowers dry well. Sturdier blooms with lower moisture content work best.
Do faux flowers look realistic?
High-quality faux flowers are designed to closely resemble real blooms and work well in permanent displays.
Are faux flowers better than dried flowers?
Faux flowers require no maintenance, while dried flowers offer a natural texture. The best choice depends on preference and use.
Can wreaths be preserved long term?
Yes, dried and preserved wreaths can last for years with proper storage and care.
