Preserved flowers offer long-lasting beauty with minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice for home décor and gifts. However, some common care mistakes can shorten their lifespan or ruin their charm. Learn the key preserved flower care mistakes to avoid and how to ensure your cherished blooms stay vibrant for months or even years.

Why Preserved Flowers Need Special Care

Unlike fresh flowers, preserved blooms undergo treatment to keep their color, shape, and texture. Think of them as a cross between dried and fresh flowers—beautiful, but still delicate. Although preserved flowers don’t wilt or need water, improper care can cause fading, brittleness, or mold.

Mistake 1: Adding Water or Exposing to Humidity

Preserved flowers are often mistaken for dried blooms and, in an attempt to ‘revive’ them, some people water them. This is a significant blunder. Preserved flowers have all moisture replaced with plant-safe solutions, so water only damages them.

• Keep preserved arrangements away from bathrooms, kitchens, and humid spaces.
• Always display them in a dry environment to prevent mold or color bleeding.

Mistake 2: Placing in Direct Sunlight

Sunlight seems ideal for flowers, but for preserved blooms, it’s a silent enemy.

• Direct sun causes color to fade faster, making vibrant petals look dull or bleached.
• Instead, display them in indirect light or shaded spaces to preserve their natural hues.

Mistake 3: Touching or Rearranging Too Often

Preserved flowers are delicate. Frequent handling can crush petals or cause them to fall off.

• Avoid touching the blooms unnecessarily.
• If you must dust them or move their display, handle gently by the stems or base.

Mistake 4: Exposing to Extreme Temperatures

Extreme heat or cold destabilizes the preserving agents within your blooms.

• Don’t place arrangements near heaters, air conditioners, or fireplaces.
• Fluctuating temperatures may dry out preserved flowers and make them brittle.

Mistake 5: Ignoring Dust or Dirt Build-Up

While preserved arrangements are low-maintenance, dust can accumulate, making them look tired.

• Use a soft brush or a gentle blow from a hair dryer (on cool, low setting) to clean petals.
• Avoid using wet cloths or sprays, which can damage their finish.

Mistake 6: Using Cleaning Products

Cleaning sprays or chemicals can react badly with the preservation substances.

• Never use cleaning agents, polish, or fragrances on preserved arrangements.
• Let the natural look speak for itself; just periodic gentle dusting is enough.

Mistake 7: Crowding Arrangements

Cramming preserved flowers into a small space or overlapping too heavy objects can distort their shape.

• Give each arrangement enough room so petals and leaves aren’t pressed or bent.
• This avoids misshapen blooms and maintains their captivating form.

Mistake 8: Neglecting Their Placement

Location matters when it comes to preserved flower care mistakes to avoid.

• Don’t place near doors or open windows where wind or sudden drafts can dislodge petals.
• Avoid placing them where pets or children can reach and accidentally knock them over.

Tips for Getting the Most from Your Preserved Flowers

Follow these extra tips to extend your preserved arrangement’s lifespan:

• Rotate the arrangement occasionally to prevent uneven fading.
• Store unused preserved flowers in a dry box away from light when not on display.
• Read any care instructions specific to your arrangement, as some flowers may have unique requirements.

Conclusion

Preserved flower care mistakes to avoid are easy once you know what to watch for. Handle with care, keep them in suitable spots, and resist the urge to water—your preserved blooms will keep their beauty longer and brighten your space for the months ahead.