Wax, glycerin, silica gel, and other preservation methods
Every beautiful bouquet eventually fades. But there are ways to preserve flowers - some last for months, others for years. Here are the best techniques.
Preserving flowers is an old craft currently enjoying a revival. Whether you want to preserve a bridal bouquet as a keepsake, create dried flower décor, or simply enjoy a particularly beautiful bouquet for longer, there is a right method for every purpose.
Method 1: Air Drying
The simplest and oldest method. Hang the flowers upside down and let them dry in a dry, dark place for two to four weeks.
Best for: Roses, lavender, baby's breath, strawflowers, hydrangeas, eucalyptus
Time: 2-4 weeks
Lasts: 1-3 years
Drawback: Colors fade, flowers become brittle
Method 2: Silica Gel
Silica gel removes moisture from the flowers while preserving their shape and color almost perfectly. The best results of all methods.
Best for: Almost all flowers - especially roses, peonies, dahlias, ranunculus
Time: 3-7 days
Lasts: 1-3 years (longer with UV protection)
Advantage: Best color and shape retention of all methods
Embed the flowers in a layer of silica gel, carefully cover them with more gel, and store them in an airtight container. After a few days, gently uncover them and brush off any excess gel.
Method 3: Glycerin
The plant absorbs a glycerin-water solution that replaces the water in its cells. The result: soft, flexible, long-lasting flowers and leaves.
Best for: Eucalyptus, ivy leaves, boxwood, hydrangeas
Mixture: 1 part glycerin (from the pharmacy) + 2 parts hot water
Time: 1-3 weeks (the plant absorbs the solution)
Lasts: Years - leaves stay soft and flexible
Method 4: Wax
Dipping flowers into melted wax preserves them and gives them a beautiful, slightly glossy look. Works best with sturdy blooms.
Best for: Roses, carnations, chrysanthemums
Type of wax: Paraffin or soy wax, heated to around 60 degrees
Lasts: Several months
Tip: Dip quickly and leave to dry on baking paper. Not too hot, or the flower petals will burn.
Method 5: Epoxy Resin
Embedding flowers in clear resin preserves them forever. Popular for jewelry, coasters, bookends, and decorative objects. The most elaborate method, but also the most durable.
Important: Flowers must be completely dry before being embedded in resin (ideally with silica gel). Fresh flowers will rot in resin and turn brown. Patience pays off.
Preserving a Bridal Bouquet
Preserving a bridal bouquet is one of the most common wishes. The best options are:
- Silica gel: Best for preserving color and shape. Dry individual blooms and arrange them in a glass frame or under a cloche.
- Pressing: Press individual blooms and arrange them in a picture frame. Flat, but highly decorative.
- Epoxy resin: Cast individual blooms into resin coasters or spheres. Unique keepsakes.
- Professional preservation: There are specialists who professionally preserve bridal bouquets in glass frames or cloches. It costs EUR 150 to EUR 400, but the result is museum-worthy.
Fresh flowers from MoBlumen Vienna
Beautiful flowers to enjoy and preserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preserving Flowers
Ideally, flowers should be preserved while they are still fresh and fully open. Slightly wilted flowers can still be dried, but the results are noticeably worse. For a bridal bouquet: it is best to start drying it immediately after the celebration.
In craft stores, online (Amazon), or from specialist chemical suppliers. You need fine silica gel (not the coarse packets from shoe boxes). One kilogram costs around EUR 10 to EUR 15 and is enough for several flowers. The gel is reusable - simply regenerate it in the oven.
Yes, over time all preserved flowers fade - especially in direct sunlight. UV-protective glass or lacquer slows the process. Flowers preserved in epoxy resin with UV-stable resin keep their color the longest. Dark shades (red, violet) last better than light ones (yellow, pink).
Order flowers from MoBlumen Vienna
Bouquets and plants - same-day delivery in Vienna.
