Plants are preserved by replacing their natural sap and water with a preservation solution that prevents decomposition. This process allows plants to maintain their appearance and structure for extended periods.
The Preservation Process Explained
The core of plant preservation revolves around substituting the plant's internal fluids with a stabilizing solution. Here's a breakdown of the typical process:
- Harvesting: Plants are typically harvested at their peak, ensuring vibrant colors and optimal shape.
- Preparation: The plants may be cleaned and trimmed to remove any damaged or unwanted parts.
- Dehydration (Optional): In some methods, plants might be partially dehydrated before the preservation process to enhance solution absorption.
- Immersion/Absorption: The plant is submerged in, or allowed to absorb, a preservation solution. This solution usually contains:
- Glycerin: This replaces the water in the plant cells, keeping them flexible and preventing them from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Water: Acts as a carrier for the other ingredients.
- Food Coloring (Optional): Used to enhance or change the plant's color, ensuring a visually appealing result.
- Other Chemicals: Some solutions may contain additional preservatives or fungicides to prevent mold growth and further extend the plant's lifespan.
- Drying: After soaking, the plants are carefully dried, often in a controlled environment, to set the preservation.
Why this Works
The preservation solution essentially "pickles" the plant. By replacing the water, which would normally lead to decomposition, the solution inhibits microbial growth and maintains the plant's structure. Glycerin is key, as it provides flexibility and prevents the plant from becoming brittle and crumbling.
Different Preservation Methods
While the core principle remains the same, variations in preservation methods exist:
- Glycerin Preservation: This is a common method, as described above.
- Freeze-Drying (Lyophilization): Involves freezing the plant and then removing the water through sublimation. This method is often used for flowers, retaining their shape and color very well, but can be more expensive.
- Silica Gel Drying: Plants are buried in silica gel, which absorbs moisture. This method is suitable for delicate flowers.
- Pressing: A traditional method used for preserving leaves and flowers, involving flattening them between absorbent paper.
Examples of Preserved Plants
- Moss Walls: Preserved moss is used to create decorative and low-maintenance green walls.
- Dried Flower Arrangements: Dried and preserved flowers are used in bouquets, wreaths, and other decorative arrangements.
- Preserved Eucalyptus: Popular for its aesthetic appeal and fragrance.
- Herbarium Specimens: Pressed and dried plants are used for scientific study and documentation.
In summary, plants are preserved through processes that replace their natural moisture with stabilizing substances, preventing decay and maintaining their aesthetic qualities.
