Lilacs are not only beautiful flowers known for their fragrant blooms but also delicate and require special care to preserve their beauty for a longer time. If you want to enjoy lilacs indoors or make a stunning floral arrangement, it’s essential to preserve them properly. Here’s a detailed guide on how to preserve lilacs to ensure they stay fresh for days to come.
Gather your supplies
Before you start preserving lilacs, make sure you have all the necessary supplies ready. You will need a pair of sharp pruning shears, Quick Dip solution, a bucket filled with clean water, and floral preservative to keep the flowers hydrated and healthy.
Harvesting the lilacs
When harvesting lilacs from your garden, it’s crucial to choose blooms that are at their peak and have not fully opened yet. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle and do this early in the morning when the flowers are filled with moisture and nutrients.
Prepare the stems
Once you have harvested the lilacs, remove any leaves from the lower part of the stem. Trim the stem to the desired length and immediately place it in the Quick Dip solution for one second. This will help the lilacs absorb water more efficiently and prevent wilting.
Water-filled bucket
After dipping the stem in Quick Dip, immediately place it in a bucket filled with deep clean water. It’s important to add floral preservative to the water to provide essential nutrients to the lilacs and keep bacteria at bay. Allow the stems to hydrate for a few hours in a cool, dark place.
Remove excess foliage
Before arranging the lilacs in a vase or floral display, make sure to remove any excess foliage and thorns that could come in contact with the water. This will help prevent the water from becoming dirty and prolong the life of the lilacs.
Change the water regularly
To extend the lifespan of the preserved lilacs, it’s essential to change the water in the vase every two to three days. This will prevent the build-up of bacteria and ensure the flowers stay fresh and hydrated for a longer period.
Display in a suitable location
When displaying preserved lilacs, choose a location away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Lilacs prefer cooler temperatures and will last longer in a shady spot. Avoid placing them near ripening fruits, as the ethylene gas emitted can cause the flowers to deteriorate quickly.
Avoid drafts and dry air
Lilacs are sensitive to drafts and dry air, which can cause them to wilt prematurely. To preserve the flowers’ freshness, place them in a location away from air vents or fans. You can also mist the blooms lightly with water to provide additional moisture.
Enjoy the fragrance
One of the best things about preserved lilacs is their delightful fragrance that can fill a room with a sweet aroma. Take time to appreciate the beauty and scent of the flowers, and enjoy their presence in your home for as long as possible.
Conclusion
Preserving lilacs may require some effort, but the results are well worth it. By following these steps and caring for the flowers properly, you can enjoy the beauty of lilacs indoors for an extended period. Whether you’re creating a stunning floral arrangement or simply want to brighten up your home, preserving lilacs is a rewarding process that allows you to cherish these lovely blooms.
