We explained the process of preservation by immersion in a previous article. For some plants, this process is not the most optimal and we then use preservation by immersion, which we present here.
THE TECHNIQUE
As with immersion preservation, spraying preservation is a technique for preserving previously dried plants. This process consists of spraying a glycerin-based solution over the plant, and not completely immersing them.
THE PRESERVATION PROCESS
The preservation process is almost similar to the one of immersion preservation. The solution used is identical: glycerin and food colouring. Once heated to 40°C, it is sprayed above the plants, on the visible top layer. That’s the only difference. Instead of being completely soaked, the plant will be moistened enough for the process to work. It is then cleaned and dried.
ADVANTAGES
This stabilization process is used on spongy plants to reduce drying time. If immersion preservation were preferred, the drying time would be very long because mosses tend to drink a lot of liquid.
The moss is mainly used for its visible upper part. Spraying the solution only on the moss top layer gives the same result, but faster. Thus, this preservation technique speeds up the process.
Moreover, the moss underside will remain dry which will facilitate its use, in particular to stick it on supports.
PLANTS CONCERNED BY THIS TECHNIQUE
Spraying preservation is mainly for mosses: forest moss, flat moss, and ball moss. They are mainly found in interior design, for example in maintenance-free plant walls.
Preservation by spraying is therefore intended for a few plants only. It remains as effective as any preservation process and allows the plants concerned to maintain their natural appearance to the maximum.