Freeze Drying
The most popular form of flower preservation, and the most expensive, freeze drying should only be done by a professional.
A mix of science and art, freeze drying retains the shape and color of your flowers as if they were still fresh. Expensive equipment is required, and the process cannot be completed at home. The total process takes eight to 12 weeks. Flowers retain the shape, color and texture of fresh flowers and last for a lifetime if cared for properly.
Air Drying
You can air dry your bridal bouquet by first dividing the flowers into smaller bunches. Remove leaves if applicable and tie stems with twine, wire or rubber bands. Hang bunches upside down in a warm, dark area. Wait until all flowers are totally dry-about two weeks.
Silica Gel
Opt for a professional to have this form of preservation done. It’s quick―most flowers dry in a week to 10 days. The flower shape and color will appear more natural than drying the flowers. However, this is not a good method for roses, and colors will darken as a result of the treatment.
Pressing
Flowers with flat faces, such as pansies, petunias, violas and daisies, press well.
To press your own flowers, place flowers between sheets of blotting paper and put into a flower press or make a press with two boards and weights. Flowers take two weeks to completely dry. Flowers do not always retain the original color, and do have a tendency to lose their shape, but they can be color-enhanced with paint by a professional, and they will last a lifetime.
