Calla Lily Preservation: A Comprehensive Guide to Preserving the Beauty of Your Blooms

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Calla lilies, renowned for their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms and vibrant colors, are a popular choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. Preserving their ephemeral beauty allows you to enjoy their exquisite charm beyond their natural lifespan.

Harvesting Calla Lilies for Preservation

• Select mature, healthy blooms with no visible damage or wilting.
• Harvest during the morning or evening when the flowers are cool and hydrated.
• Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle using sharp, clean scissors.

Drying Calla Lilies Naturally

• Air Drying: Suspend the stems upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area. Rotate the stems periodically to ensure even drying.
• Silica Gel: Place the blooms in an airtight container filled with silica gel. This method preserves the flower’s color and shape more effectively.

Pressing Calla Lilies

1. Spread out the blooms flat on a piece of acid-free paper.
2. Cover the flowers with another sheet of paper and weigh them down with heavy objects, such as books or bricks.
3. Allow the flowers to press for several weeks, checking periodically for dryness.

Preserving Calla Lilies with Glycerin

Glycerin helps preserve the flexibility and moisture of the flowers, resulting in a more lifelike appearance.

Ingredients:

• 1 part glycerin
• 2 parts boiling water

1. Mix the glycerin and boiling water in a container.
2. Trim the calla lily stems diagonally and remove any leaves that will be submerged.
3. Submerge the stems in the glycerin solution, ensuring they are completely covered.
4. Allow the flowers to soak for 2-3 weeks.

Preserving Calla Lilies with Wax

Waxing calla lilies gives them a glossy, protective finish that enhances their durability.

1. Melt white wax in a double boiler or microwave.
2. Dip the blooms into the molten wax, ensuring even coverage.
3. Remove the flowers and allow the excess wax to drip off.
4. Place the waxed blooms on a parchment paper-lined surface to cool.

Tips for Preserving Calla Lilies

• Handle the blooms with care to minimize damage.
• Store preserved calla lilies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• If the flowers become dusty, gently brush them with a soft paintbrush.
• Avoid using water or cleaning solutions on preserved flowers, as they may damage them.

Using Preserved Calla Lilies

Preserved calla lilies can be used in various decorative applications:

• Floral arrangements
• Wreaths
• Bouquets
• Home décor
• Special occasion decorations

By following these preservation techniques, you can prolong the life of your calla lilies and enjoy their exquisite beauty for years to come. Whether you choose to dry, press, or preserve them using glycerin or wax, these methods offer practical solutions to capture the ephemeral grace of these stunning flowers.