Preserving Funeral Flowers: Common Mistakes to Avoid

When a loved one passes away, funeral flowers serve as a beautiful symbol of love and remembrance. These floral arrangements bring comfort and support during a difficult time. However, preserving funeral flowers can be a challenging task if not done properly. To help you keep the memories alive, we have compiled a list of common mistakes to avoid when preserving funeral flowers.

Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long

One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to preserving funeral flowers is waiting too long. After the funeral, the flowers begin to wilt and fade. To ensure successful preservation, it is important to take action as soon as possible. Waiting for too long can result in the flowers losing their vibrancy and beauty, making the preservation process more difficult.

Mistake #2: Lack of Proper Drying

Proper drying is crucial to preserving funeral flowers. Many people make the mistake of simply leaving the flowers in a vase of water or forgetting to remove excess moisture before attempting to preserve them. This can lead to mold and decay, ruining the flowers in the process. Make sure to follow the proper drying techniques to ensure successful preservation.

Mistake #3: Not Using Preservative Spray

Preservative sprays are specifically formulated to help preserve flowers and prevent them from wilting. However, many individuals overlook this important step in the preservation process. Using a preservative spray can significantly extend the life of your funeral flowers, allowing you to enjoy them for years to come.

Mistake #4: Skipping the Pressing Process

Pressing is a popular method of preserving funeral flowers, yet many people skip this step altogether. Pressing allows you to flatten and dry the flowers, preserving their shape and color. By skipping this process, you may end up with flattened or discolored flowers that do not properly represent the original arrangement.

Mistake #5: Storing in Direct Sunlight

When it comes to storing preserved funeral flowers, sunlight is not their friend. Direct sunlight can cause the colors to fade and the flowers to become brittle. Store your preserved flowers in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their beauty and longevity.

Mistake #6: Using Incorrect Preservation Materials

Using the incorrect preservation materials can have a negative impact on the outcome. Many people resort to using household items that are not suitable for preserving flowers, such as wax paper or plastic wrap. Investing in proper preservation materials, such as silica gel or flower preservation kits, will yield much better results.

Mistake #7: Not Removing Stems and Leaves

Before preserving funeral flowers, it is important to remove the stems and leaves. These parts of the flower contain moisture that can hinder the preservation process. By removing the stems and leaves, you allow the flowers to dry more effectively and ensure a successful preservation.

Mistake #8: Improper Handling

The way you handle the flowers during the preservation process can make a significant difference in the final outcome. Avoid touching the delicate petals too much, as this can cause them to break or bruise. Use gentle and careful handling techniques to preserve the integrity of the flowers.

Mistake #9: Ignoring Temperature and Humidity

The temperature and humidity levels in your preservation area play a crucial role in successful preservation. Extreme temperatures or high humidity can cause the flowers to wilt or develop mold. Find a cool and dry area with moderate humidity levels for the best results.

Mistake #10: Not Seal Properly

After successfully preserving your funeral flowers, it is important to seal them properly to protect them from dust, moisture, and other elements. Not sealing them correctly can result in the flowers losing their vibrancy over time. Use a sealant specifically designed for flower preservation to ensure long-lasting beauty.

Mistake #11: Using Chemicals

Many individuals make the mistake of using chemicals such as hairspray or bleach to preserve their funeral flowers. These chemicals can cause discoloration and damage to the flowers. It is best to avoid using any chemicals that are not specifically designed for flower preservation.

Mistake #12: Not Displaying Properly

After preserving your funeral flowers, it is important to display them properly in order to maintain their beauty. Avoid displaying them in areas exposed to direct sunlight or excessive humidity. Consider using display cases or shadow boxes to protect and showcase your preserved flowers.

In Conclusion

Preserving funeral flowers is a beautiful way to keep the memories of your loved ones alive. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your preserved flowers maintain their beauty and vibrancy for years to come. Whether you choose to press, dry, or use other preservation techniques, following these guidelines will help you create a lasting tribute to your loved ones.