Guide to Preserved Flowers

At Dried, we specialise in dried and preserved arrangements, and the concept of dried flowers may be new to some consumers. Whether you’re choosing flowers for your home, gifting, or even a wedding, preserved blooms are a beautiful and sustainable option worth exploring.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about preserved flowers, from their definition and manufacturing to their benefits, care tips, and why they’re a fantastic choice for your floral decor.

What Are Preserved Flowers?

Unlike fresh flowers, which wilt within days, dried/ preserved blooms can last for months, even up to years, if cared for correctly. Preserved flowers are real flowers that have undergone a natural preservation process to maintain their softness, structure, and fresh-like appearance for a long time.

Here’s how it works:

• Harvested at their peak - Flowers and foliage are picked at their most beautiful and vibrant stage.
• Rehydrated with a biodegradable solution - The stems are placed in a plant-based, non-toxic preserving liquid that replaces their sap with water, glycerin, and natural dyes.
• Left to absorb and dry naturally - the plants fully absorb the solution over several days and are then dried in controlled conditions.

The result? Soft, supple flowers that keep their colour and flexibility, and most importantly, don’t need water.

Preserved vs Dried Flowers: What’s the Difference?

At Dried, we love both dried and preserved blooms, each with unique qualities.

How Long Do Preserved Flowers Last?

Preserved flowers are designed to last. With some care, you can expect them to stay beautiful for up to 2–3 years, and in some cases, even longer.

To keep them looking their best:

• Avoid water – Unlike fresh flowers, preserved ones don’t need it (and water can damage them).
• Keep out of direct sunlight – Prolonged sun exposure can cause colours to fade.
• Minimise humidity – Bathrooms or kitchens aren’t ideal; moisture can cause wilting or mould.
• Avoid crushing or bending – These are still natural flowers, so treat them gently.

Benefits of Preserved Flowers

Whether you’re a flower lover looking for a fuss-free arrangement or shopping for a long-lasting gift, preserved flowers come with a whole bunch of benefits:

1. Long-lasting Beauty

One of the biggest advantages is their longevity. Preserved flowers don’t just last a few days; they can stay fresh-looking for years. That means you get more enjoyment for your money, with no wilting, drooping, or need to constantly replace them.

2. Zero Maintenance

Don’t have a green thumb? No problem. Preserved flowers require absolutely no watering, trimming, or feeding. They’re the perfect solution for busy lifestyles or for anyone who wants something beautiful without the hassle of care.

3. Eco-Friendly Alternative

Unlike fresh flowers, which are often flown in from overseas and discarded quickly, preserved flowers are a much more sustainable option. They produce less waste, require no ongoing water usage, and the preserving solution used is biodegradable and plant-based. Plus, they're compostable at the end of their life.

4. Cost-Effective

While preserved flowers may have a slightly higher upfront cost than a bouquet of fresh blooms, their durability makes them a budget-friendly choice over time. Instead of buying flowers every week, preserved arrangements can last for months or years with no replacements needed.

5. Seasonless and Versatile

Because they’re preserved at their peak, these flowers aren’t subject to seasonal limitations. Want peonies in winter or eucalyptus all year round? You got it. They're perfect for home styling, weddings, gifts, or businesses wanting consistent floral decor.

6. Safe and Allergen-Free

Preserved flowers don’t release pollen like fresh blooms, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Plus, they're a clean and safe choice for indoor environments since they don’t attract bugs or mould (when kept dry).

How to Use Preserved Flowers in Your Home

Preserved flowers can elevate any interior space, from modern minimalism to romantic vintage styles. Here are some creative ways to use them:

• In vases as statement pieces: For a timeless touch, Place preserved roses, hydrangeas, or eucalyptus in a ceramic or ribbed glass vase.
• Wall installations or wreaths: Perfect for seasonal decor or year-round beauty.
• Table centrepieces: Ideal for dinner parties, weddings, or everyday elegance.
• Gift arrangements: Unlike fresh bouquets, preserved flowers remain charming long after the celebration ends.
• Office or workspace decor: Add a natural feel to your desk without worrying about upkeep.

Final Thoughts - Why We Love Preserved Flowers

Preserved flowers combine nature’s beauty with sustainability, making them one of our favourite ways to decorate, gift, and celebrate. They’re timeless, versatile, and low-maintenance, perfect for modern living.

Preserved blooms are a thoughtful and stylish choice for creating a dining room centrepiece, curating wedding flowers, or sending someone a floral hug from afar. Explore our full collection of preserved arrangements at Dried, where every bouquet is made to last.