If you aren’t a fan of faux stems, dried or preserved florals are the best of both worlds—real flowers that last forever. However, there’s a trick to making them look full and natural. Here are my tips to get a perfect arrangement every time.
Hydrangeas are more popular now than ever, and I use them in multiple rooms throughout our home. Fresh hydrangeas never seem to last very long, but these preserved stems can look like they were just clipped, and they come in every color under the sun.
When you order them online, they arrive flattened and lackluster right out of the box—definitely not ready for a vase.
The trick to bringing them back to life is simple: a handheld steamer!
Carefully separate the stems and run the steamer over the petals to open them up. Dried florals are delicate, and the stems are often brittle, so you’ll want to be careful not to bend them too much (and if you have a toddler, don’t let them get their hands on them—ask me how I know!)
It will take a minute or two for each stem to fully release, but when you’re done, it will look like it breathed in new life (see the difference below):
This trick works on other types of dried florals, too, and even faux. I use it to fluff the leaves of my faux stems and trees so they look more realistic.
Floral wire mesh is my preferred method of arranging stems in a vase. You could also use floral foam or floral tape, but I find wire easier to work with and re-use.
Add your stems one at a time, at varying heights and positions so the arrangement looks organic. The quantity of stems needs will depend on the type of floral and the size/shape of your vase. I like my hydrangeas nice and full, and used 4 bundles in purple orchid in this terracotta vase.
Adjust and edit as needed, and now you have a real floral arrangement that will last forever!
If you’re looking for preserved hydrangeas, here are the best options I found online, including the ones I own. Worth noting: for a less delicate option, there are also many very convincing faux hydrangeas out there, too!
Did you know about this trick? It has been a game changer for me and it’s one I’ll use forever.
Anna says
This begs the question: Why choose preserved when you can get realistic faux?
Pros and cons…
Thanks!
Jenna Sue says
Just personal preference — some people are strongly against faux altogether, so this could be a good compromise if they still want real flowers that will last. You’ll also never have to guess how realistic it looks in person when ordering.
KJ says
Thank you for the great tip. I had no idea.
Jenna Sue says
Of course, happy to share what I know!