To Preserve Flowers

Southland Times, Issue 20641, 13 November 1928, Page 13

To Preserve Flowers

The task of preserving flowers in their complete state is a delightful occupation, and one which more than repays those who could spend a few more hours at this fascinating art. How delightful in mid-winter, when flowers are scarce and expensive, to see a bowl of poppies or stately marigolds, looking as fresh as if they had just been gathered! Now is the time, while gardens are still a mass of gay blossoms, to capture their fleeting beauty, together with their sweetness. Almost any kind of flowers may be equally well preserved, though the single varieties are the easiest to deal with. Select both buds and open blooms, but be careful to see that they are not too fully blown, or the petals will drop. Pure gum arabic is one of the best things to use for preserving the flowers. It should be dis- I solved in rose water until it is the consistency of a thin syrup. Each bloom is then gently whirled in the gum liquor, drained, and set on a sieve to dry. It is important to see that the stalks and leaves have been thoroughly immersed also, in order to render them absolutely airtight. The flowers once they are perfectly dry, may be packed away in boxes, or laid side by side in drawers until they are wanted. Those who care to preserve several different varieties as they are in season will find that their winter decorations will be almost unlimited.