Preserving Funeral Flowers: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Funeral flowers hold a special place in our hearts as they serve as a symbolic tribute to our dearly departed. Preserving these flowers can help us cherish the memories associated with the loving gesture for a longer time. However, there are common mistakes that people make when trying to preserve funeral flowers that may lead to disappointment. In this guide, we will discuss these mistakes and provide tips on how to avoid them.

1. Waiting Too Long to Preserve

One of the most common mistakes people make is waiting too long to start the preservation process. The longer you wait, the more the flowers wilt and lose their color and form. It is best to start the preservation process as soon as possible after the funeral to ensure optimal results.

2. Not Using the Right Preservation Method

There are various methods available for preserving funeral flowers, such as air-drying, pressing, silica gel drying, and freeze-drying. Each method is suitable for different types of flowers. Not using the right preservation method can lead to poor results and damage to the flowers.

3. Exposing Flowers to Direct Sunlight

Exposing funeral flowers to direct sunlight can cause them to fade quickly. To preserve the color and form of the flowers, it is essential to store them in a cool, dark place during the preservation process.

4. Skipping the Dehydration Step

Dehydration is a crucial step in the flower preservation process. Skipping this step can result in mold growth and the deterioration of the flowers over time. Make sure to follow the dehydration process recommended for the preservation method you choose.

5. Using Excessive Heat

Applying excessive heat during the preservation process can cause the flowers to lose their natural color and texture. It is important to follow the temperature recommendations for the preservation method to ensure the best results.

6. Ignoring the Humidity Levels

High humidity levels can lead to mold growth and damage the preserved funeral flowers. It is essential to store the flowers in a low humidity environment to prevent moisture-related issues.

7. Using Incorrect Preservation Tools

Using the wrong tools for flower preservation can lead to damage and poor results. Ensure you have the necessary tools such as silica gel, pressing materials, or a freeze-drying machine, depending on the preservation method you choose.

8. Not Removing Foliage Properly

Before preserving the funeral flowers, it is important to remove excess foliage carefully. Leaving too much foliage on the flowers can hinder the preservation process and lead to a messy outcome.

9. Overcrowding the Flowers

When preserving multiple funeral flowers together, avoid overcrowding them in the preservation container. Overcrowding can cause the flowers to lose their shape and color, resulting in an unappealing preserved bouquet.

10. Not Sealing the Preservation Container Correctly

Properly sealing the preservation container is essential to prevent air and moisture from affecting the preserved funeral flowers. Make sure the container is airtight to maintain the quality of the preserved flowers.

11. Storing Preserved Flowers in High-Traffic Areas

Storing preserved funeral flowers in high-traffic areas where they are exposed to dust, sunlight, or fluctuating temperatures can damage the flowers over time. Choose a cool, dry, and low-light location for displaying the preserved flowers.

12. Keeping Preserved Flowers Near Fresh Produce

Preserved funeral flowers should be kept away from fresh produce as fruits and vegetables release ethylene gas, which can cause the flowers to deteriorate quickly. Store the preserved flowers in a separate location to maintain their freshness.

In Closing

Preserving funeral flowers is a thoughtful way to honor the memory of a loved one. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the proper preservation techniques, you can ensure that the beauty of the flowers lasts for years to come. Remember, each step in the preservation process is crucial in maintaining the quality of the flowers, allowing you to cherish the memories they represent.