How to Preserve Flowers in Des Moines, IA
- 1). Pour a 1-inch-thick layer of silica gel in the bottom of a plastic container that has a tight-fitting lid. The container should be large enough so the flowers can be set on the layer of gel without touching each other. Silica gel looks like a powder and is not really a gel.
- 2). Prepare the flowers you wish to preserve by cutting off the flower heads making sure the flowers are dry. If you are cutting fresh flowers, cut the flowers after the dew has dried. Use only the best flowers that show no signs of disease or insect damage. The flowers should be at their peak, and at least three-fourths open. Cut the stem behind the flower head, leaving 1/2 inch to 1 inch of stem attached to the back of the flower head.
- 3). Place the flowers in the silica gel by positioning the stem into the gel. The back of the flower should have as much contact with the gel as possible. If the length of the stem prevents the gel from contacting the back of the flower, add more gel to the container or cut the stem shorter.
- 4). Sprinkle more silica gel over the flowers once they are positioned in the container. Completely cover the flowers to a depth of 1 inch. Tap the side of the container occasionally when you are adding the gel to make sure it works its way between the flower petals. Place the tight-fitting lid on the container. The lid must fit tightly to prevent the silica gel from absorbing the natural humidity in the air.
- 5). Set the container in a place where it will not be disturbed, in a room-temperature location.
- 6). Open the container in one week. Carefully remove the gel from around the flowers. The flowers should be perfectly preserved.