When it comes to flower arrangements the possibilities are truly endless, whether you are looking for fresh or preserved there is no shortage of options. However, a major setback of fresh flowers is that they do not last as long as you want.
As a florist, it's important to understand the difference between preserved and dried flowers. Although both are long-lasting and beautiful, they are not the same.
In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between the two and provide tips on how to use them in floral arrangements.
Firstly, let's briefly define what preserved flowers and dried flowers are.
Preserved flowers are fresh flowers that have undergone a special preservation process that keeps them looking fresh and vibrant for years. This process replaces the sap and water in the flowers with a glycerine-based solution that maintains their natural shape, colour, and texture.
On the other hand, dried flowers are fresh flowers that have been hung upside down to dry. Over time, the water in the flowers evaporates, leaving them dehydrated and brittle.
What is the difference between preserved flowers and dried flowers?
Perhaps the most significant difference between the two is their longevity.
Preserved flowers can last up to a year or more, while dried flowers only last a few months.
This makes preserved flowers ideal for long-term displays like wedding bouquets, interior decoration and special gifts while dried flowers are great for seasonal arrangements.
Another difference is their texture. Preserved flowers retain their natural feel and softness, while dried flowers become brittle and papery. This makes preserved flowers well-suited for floral crowns, while dried flowers work best in wreaths.
When it comes to colour, preserved flowers have a wider range of colours available because they are not subject to the natural fading that occurs during the drying process of dried flowers. This makes preserved flowers perfect for creating custom-coloured arrangements, while dried flowers offer a more vintage and rustic look.
Lastly, let's talk about scent. Preserved flowers do not have a strong fragrance, while dried flowers often retain their natural scent, which can be either a pro or a con depending on your preference. If you want a floral arrangement with a pleasant fragrance, go for dried flowers. If scent isn't a priority, then preserved flowers may be more suitable.
What is the BIGGEST difference between dried and preserved flowers?
The preservation technique used.
Dried Flowers:
As the name suggests, preserving dried flowers is through dehydrating the flowers.
The process can even be done at home, it is as simple as hanging the flowers upside down in a dry environment for a period of time.
Eventually, the moisture will have evaporated out of the flowers giving you the final product of ‘dried flowers’.
It is carried out differently on an industrial level as there are different plant materials. The technique used is dependent on the thickness, density and fragility of the plants and flower structures.
Once the flowers are fully dried the colour will be dull, and the petals will be extremely brittle and delicate to touch. The dehydration process will often leave them smaller in size, this is normal.
Preserved Flowers:
The preservation process for preserved flowers is another form of drying. However, the process and technique is completely different. The result of this process will be a flexible texture and natural look that mimics a fresh flower!
Preserving flowers is a complex process which I will explain briefly below;
1. The natural flowers come fresh from the farms. Our team checks the best quality rose heads by looking at each head to ensure there are no imperfections. The best ones are selected, and then the stems are cut off and put on trays, which go in a stabilising solution.
At Vermont Flowers Ldt, all the flowers come from local farmers from small scale to large scale. Kenya is known for its beautiful roses, that are exported all over the world, and we are proud to be part of the companies that represent the flower industry of the local market to the world.
2. During the process, the natural saps of the flowers are replaced with a glycerine-based solution which is a rehydration process. Due to the process, the flowers lose their colour and the petals come out completely transparent.
3. To give the flowers their rich colourful look, the flowers are dyed in different colours.
4. After this process, the stabilised flowers are dried, and the ones again sorted and selected.
5. Lastly, the best quality roses are chosen to make our unique creations which have a long-lasting life span of up to 3 years!
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between preserved and dried flowers is essential to create beautiful and long-lasting floral arrangements.
When choosing between preserved and dried flowers, consider the longevity, texture, colour, and scent you want for your arrangement.
Keep in mind that both options have their unique characteristics, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
With this knowledge, you can create stunning arrangements that will impress your clients and brighten up any occasion.
FAQ
What is the difference between preserved and dried flowers?
The difference between preserved and dried flowers is their longevity, texture, colour, and scent. Preserved flowers can last a year or more, while dried flowers only last a few months. Preserved flowers retain their natural feel and softness, while dried flowers become brittle and papery. Preserved flowers have a wider range of colours available, while dried flowers offer a more vintage and rustic look. Preserved flowers do not have a strong fragrance, while dried flowers often retain their natural scent.
How long do preserved flowers last?
Preserved flowers can last up to a year or more, making them ideal for long-term displays.
Can you use preserved and dried flowers together?
Yes, you can use both preserved and dried flowers in the same arrangement. They complement each other well and offer a variety of textures and colours. However, it's important to keep in mind their different lifespans and handling instructions to ensure the best results.
How can I tell if a flower has been preserved or dried?
You can tell the difference between preserved and dried flowers by touching them. Preserved flowers will feel soft and pliable, while dried flowers will be brittle and stiff.