Why do flowers change colors during preservation?

🌼 The short version... Flowers fade and change constantly from the time they blossom to the time they pass. Flowers also go through extreme conditions as they are harvested, packed, shipped, stored, purchased, conditioned, designed and finally delivered. Then comes the preservation process! The preservation process is so extreme to their delicate structure that they can't help but be affected.  With a little care and creativity, their beauty can last a lifetime.
Read on for the technical version—because preserving magic takes a little science too.

🧪 The Chemistry of Color
Fresh flowers owe their color to pigments—mainly anthocyanins, carotenoids, and chlorophyll:
- Anthocyanins produce reds, blues, and purples.
- Carotenoids give yellows, oranges, and reds.
- Chlorophyll lends green to leaves and stems.
These pigments are sensitive to environmental changes. When flowers are dried, the loss of moisture alters their structure and chemistry, leading to a change—or even a loss—of color.
 What Causes the Color Shift?
Here are a few key factors that affect flower coloration during drying:
- Oxidation: Pigments react with oxygen, causing fading or browning (especially in reds and purples).
- Light Exposure: UV light breaks down pigments over time, especially if drying is done in sunlight.
- Temperature: Heat can accelerate chemical changes, sometimes preserving color—and sometimes dulling it.
- Moisture Content: As water evaporates, cells shrink and collapse, distorting the way light reflects off the surface.
💡 Preservation Techniques That Make a Difference
In our studio, we use an array of preservation techniques to minimize fading and maximize beauty, including:
- Silica Gel Drying: Captures delicate petals with stunning vibrancy.
- Microwave Pressing: Speeds up drying to reduce oxidation.
- Resin Encapsulation: Once dried, flowers are sealed in resin to preserve their final state and prevent further degradation.
- UV Protection: Finished keepsakes are kept out of direct sunlight to prolong their color.
- Commercial Freeze Dryer: One of the most advanced methods available—by freezing flowers and removing moisture in a vacuum chamber, we retain both structure and color far better than traditional drying alone.
Using this combination ensures each bloom is treated with care and artistry, preserving not just its shape, but its emotional imprint.
🖼️ The Beauty in Evolution
Sometimes, the change in color is not a flaw—but a feature. Soft pinks might deepen to antique rose, while bright purples can mellow into earthy mauves. These shifts give dried blooms a timeless, vintage appeal that perfectly suits sentimental keepsakes.
Understanding and embracing these changes allows us to celebrate the journey each flower takes.