The Ultimate Guide to Buying Dried Flowers

Here at Coastal Habitat, we're always on the lookout for beautiful, sustainable, and lasting ways to bring nature's charm into your home. And right now, there's a clear frontrunner stealing hearts everywhere: dried flowers.

Forget the dusty, brittle bouquets of the past. Today's dried flowers are a vibrant, versatile, and eco-friendly alternative to fresh blooms, offering a unique aesthetic that's both timeless and on-trend. If you've been seeing them pop up everywhere from high-end decor magazines to your favorite Instagram feeds, you're not alone! But what exactly makes them so popular, and what should you know before you dive into the wonderful world of dried botanicals?

Let's explore why dried flowers are the new favorite and equip you with everything you need to know before making your first purchase.

The Irresistible Appeal of Dried Flowers

1. Longevity (and Value!): This is undoubtedly their biggest selling point. Unlike fresh flowers that wilt after a week (or less!), dried flowers can last for months, even years, with proper care. This makes them an incredibly cost-effective option in the long run, as you're investing in enduring beauty rather than fleeting moments.

2. Sustainable Style: In an increasingly eco-conscious world, dried flowers tick all the right boxes. They require no water, no refrigeration, and their extended lifespan significantly reduces waste compared to the constant cycle of fresh cut flowers. Choosing dried flowers is a small but impactful way to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

3. Unique Aesthetic & Texture: Dried flowers possess a rustic, ethereal charm that fresh flowers simply can't replicate. Their muted tones, intricate textures, and sometimes even slightly curled petals add a depth and character to arrangements that feels incredibly natural and sophisticated. They offer a unique way to add warmth, coziness, and a touch of bohemian elegance to any space.

4. Low Maintenance: No watering, no pruning, no fuss! Dried flowers are the ultimate low-maintenance decor. Once arranged, they simply sit pretty, requiring only an occasional gentle dusting. Perfect for busy individuals or anyone who loves the look of flowers without the commitment.

5. Versatility in Design: From minimalist single stems to elaborate floral installations, dried flowers are incredibly versatile. They can be incorporated into bouquets, wreaths, wall hangings, table centerpieces, and even boutonnieres. Their neutral color palettes often blend seamlessly with various decor styles, from modern and Scandinavian to farmhouse and coastal (a perfect fit for Coastal Habitat!).

What to Know Before You Buy Dried Flowers

Ready to bring some everlasting beauty into your home? Here are a few key things to consider before you make your purchase:

1. Quality Matters: Not all dried flowers are created equal. Look for reputable sellers who offer high-quality, professionally preserved botanicals. Good quality dried flowers will have retained their shape, color, and some of their natural flexibility. Avoid anything that looks overly brittle, crumbly, or has a strong, unpleasant odor.

2. Understand the Drying Process: Different flowers respond to drying in various ways. Some retain their vibrant colors beautifully, while others develop more muted, earthy tones. Popular drying methods include air drying, silica gel, and glycerin preservation, each yielding different results. If you have a specific look in mind, it's worth understanding how different flowers will appear when dried.

3. Color Changes are Natural: While many dried flowers retain their original hues, some will naturally fade or change color over time, especially when exposed to direct sunlight. Embrace this natural evolution as part of their charm! If you want to preserve their initial color for as long as possible, keep them out of direct sun.

4. Handle with Care: Dried flowers are delicate. When arranging or moving them, be gentle to avoid breakage. Some shedding is normal, especially with feathery varieties like pampas grass.

5. Placement is Key: To maximize their lifespan, keep dried flowers away from:

·      Direct Sunlight: As mentioned, this can cause fading.

·      High Humidity: Moisture can lead to mold or a loss of their preserved quality. Bathrooms and kitchens might not be the best spots.

·      Extreme Temperatures: Keep them in a stable room environment.

6. Cleaning is Simple: A gentle dusting with a soft brush, a hairdryer on a cool, low setting, or even a can of compressed air (from a safe distance!) is usually all that's needed to keep them looking fresh.

Embrace the Everlasting Charm with Coastal Habitat

At Coastal Habitat, we believe in creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also reflect a thoughtful and sustainable approach to living. Dried flowers perfectly embody this philosophy, offering a timeless elegance that endures.

Explore our curated selection of high-quality dried flowers and botanicals, perfect for adding that touch of everlasting coastal charm to your home. Whether you're looking for a striking statement piece or subtle accents, we're confident you'll find something to love.

Have you embraced the dried flower trend yet? Share your favourite ways to style them in the comments below!