Preserved and dried arrangements have got everyone’s attention while most of us working from home looking to add some style to our new office. Dried arrangements have become an alternative to styling our homes with floral that last for years instead of weeks.

Dried floral and grasses have always made an appearance in weddings, particularly the pampas grass that we have seen adorn many a wedding recently. But with couples facing last minute change of plans and uncertainty whether restrictions will again change impacting a planned wedding the dried arrangement assist with the problem of you ordering fresh flowers that may not get used. Floretta by Grace have designed a bridal party collection of dried and preserved arrangements that assist with just that problem. “There is no waste if your wedding gets postponed, which so many couples are living in fear of that with fresh flowers. There is also the bonus of keeping or gifting them after,” said Floretta by Grace owner Grace.

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 flower and foliage replaced with glycerine. This makes them look and feel more like fresh flowers.

Are certain flowers better dried?

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 you care for?

Preserved and dried flowers have a general shelf life of 1-3 years, but they may last much longer (they will however fade over time.) There is no expiration date for flowers that have been dried or preserved.

While many claim they will last indefinitely, their appearance and longevity actually depend on environmental conditions and handling.

• High humidity, moisture and windy conditions will shorten the shorter the lifespan.

• All floral materials will age differently; some may age quicker than others. Dried & preserved flowers & foliage is delicate and can easily be crushed so handing should be minimal.

• Keep out of direct sunlight, away from air conditioning or heating ducts, windy or humid conditions.

• Display away from damp or wet areas like bathrooms.

• They are not fresh so does not require water.