10 Simple Ways to Preserve Flowers in a Jar

Preserving flowers in a jar is a delightful way to extend the beauty of a bouquet or capture the essence of a special arrangement. Here are 10 simple methods to preserve flowers in a jar:

1. Air Drying:
   • Remove excess leaves from the stems.
   • Bundle the flowers and hang them upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area.
   • Once dry, arrange them in a jar, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
2. Silica Gel Method:
   • Pour a layer of silica gel into the bottom of a jar.
   • Trim flower stems and place them on the gel.
   • Gently pour more silica gel around and over the flowers until they are fully covered.
   • Seal the jar and let it sit for several days until the flowers are dry.
3. Pressing Flowers:
   • Place flowers between absorbent paper in a heavy book.
   • Stack books on top to apply pressure.
   • Leave for a few weeks until the flowers are fully dried, then arrange them in the jar.
4. Glycerin Solution:
   • Mix one part glycerin with two parts water.
   • Trim flower stems and place them in the glycerin solution.
   • Allow the flowers to sit until they absorb the glycerin.
   • Remove and air dry, then arrange in a jar.
5. Microwave Drying:
   • Place flowers between paper towels and microwave in short bursts until dry.
   • Arrange the microwaved flowers in a jar for display.
6. Freeze Drying:
   • Freeze flowers by placing them in a single layer on a tray.
   • Transfer the frozen flowers to a jar for a unique frozen-in-time effect.
7. Borax and Cornmeal Mixture:
   • Mix equal parts borax and cornmeal.
   • Place a layer at the bottom of the jar and add flowers.
   • Cover the flowers with the mixture and let them dry for a few weeks.
8. Wax Coating:
   • Melt paraffin wax in a double boiler.
   • Dip each flower into the wax, coating it completely.
   • Allow the wax to cool and harden before arranging the flowers in a jar.
9. Epoxy Resin Encasement:
   • Mix epoxy resin according to the instructions.
   • Pour the resin into a jar, and arrange the flowers inside as it sets.
10. Shadow Box Display:
    • Arrange the flowers in a shadow box with a glass front.
    • Seal the shadow box to protect the flowers from dust and damage.

When preserving flowers, choose blooms that are fresh and not wilted. Handle the flowers gently to avoid damage, and consider the final look you want to achieve when selecting a preservation method. Each method offers a unique aesthetic, allowing you to create a personalized display of your favorite blooms.