How do I preserve small fall branches for use in flower arrangments

Lgsmith
by Lgsmith
  3 answers
  • B. Enne B. Enne on Sep 16, 2017

    If you want just the branches they will dry on their own.

    • See 1 previous
    • B. Enne B. Enne on Sep 29, 2017

      My Mother used to spray some type of clear varnish on cattails and other wild plants for decrations, and it would preserve them for the season. Maybe something like Krylon Acrylic Crystal Clear would work for that too.

  • Kay27246977 Kay27246977 on Sep 16, 2017

    maybe spray with a kind of lock spray

    • See 1 previous
    • B. Enne B. Enne on Sep 29, 2017

      I just saw this part sorry...when you open a reply through your notifications, not all the answers show .

  • PJ Wise PJ Wise on Sep 17, 2017

    The following method allows to the branches/stems to remain pliable and longer lasting than just drying. It's especially good to use with leaves on branches (no need to take the leaves off unless you want). This works with oak, maple, magnolia, etc.


    What you need:

    1 part glycerin (craft store, Amazon or pharmacy) to 2 parts water.


    Preserving Branches with Glycerin

    1. Give the branches a fresh cut.

    2. Lightly crush the end of the stems with a hammer.

    3. Arrange the branches in a vase filled with the glycerin-water solution in a deep vase out of direct sunlight.


    Branches will take a month or longer to soak up the glycerin, but the finished product will keep indefinitely.

    • Lgsmith Lgsmith on Sep 28, 2017

      Thank you for the info. Sorry I did not respond sooner. But I am most grateful. I want to preserve some sumac branches that look as if they will be glorious this year.