Flowers- who doesn't like them? They are essential to moments of happiness, to worship, and even in processions of death. A bit gloomy, I know. But it is astounding to wonder how flowers enjoy a place in every major event of our lives.One may wonder, why fuss over something that is so fleeting? They are going to die in a few days- where is beauty in that? I feel there is immense beauty in something that is so fleeting, one appreciates it that much more.
At any rate, I haven't met anyone who doesn't like flowers, or the thought of flowers in their home. The Egyptians were doing it in 2500 BC, which is the oldest recorded mention of flowers in vases being used as decor. Though I think those arrangements must have been a far cry from the flower arrangements we see today.
As lovely as it is to have fresh flowers at all times, there is no denying they require a fair bit of care. Trimming the stems and changing the water everyday, preventing bacterial build-up, flower food- the list can be tiresome to most. Preserving them is what makes them last longer.
How are flowers preserved?
It is important to know that not all flowers can be preserved. Furthermore, some flowers can be pressed, but not preserved suitably to be used as decor. For example, you can't preserve gladiolus or tuberose, but they can be pressed and used in other decor uses.
The ones that can be preserved, such as wild daisies, bunny tails grass, statice, eucalyptus, grain and millet stalks such as barley, wheat etc. are preserved by shade drying and constant airing in an environment devoid of moisture. This eliminates the water content from flowers, just like any other preservation. Bacteria builds in the presence of water. Eliminating moisture from flowers prevents bacteria build-up, and makes the flowers last longer. 
In picture: Wild daisies being dried after dyeing in Manipur
In picture: Ammobium flowers being preserved in Manipur
So how long do these flowers last?
They last forever, really- meaning they will not ever wilt and die. But you will begin to see some changes in the appearance over time. In about 7-8 months, the stalks of some varieties begin getting dark in colour. In case of some varieties, the colour of the flowers start fading after a year or so.
All flowers have different height, appearance, volume, as they come from Mother Nature's mill, not a factory that we run. We are ever so grateful for her bounty, and the fact that we are able to support growers and foragers from the North-East, West Bengal and Kashmir at a scale that I didn't think was possible.
Caring for these flowers- what are the do's and don'ts?
The flowers should never be watered, should be kept away from direct sunlight, and cleaned gently using a blow dryer on slow speed. When you make a purchase from us, you will receive a detailed flower care instructions card to help you achieve the most of these perennial beauties.
Next time you are thinking of switching your plastic flowers, you'd be remiss not to consider these dainty preserved dried flowers.