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Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is freeze-drying the best method of preservation?
What kind of equipment is needed to freeze-dry?
How long do freeze-dried flowers last?
Why should I have my flowers preserved
How long does the process take?
How soon should I get my flowers to you?
- What is freeze-drying?
Freeze-drying is accomplished by sublimation of ice in a vacuum. The basic elements of this process have been known for over 75 years. However, it was not until WWII that much emphasis was placed on the refinement process. During this time, much attention was given to the development of equipment and techniques for the purpose of supplying large quantities of dried blood plasma and penicillin to the armed forces. By the end of the war, freeze-drying had become known as a near perfect method of preservation.
- Why is freeze-drying the best method of preservation?
The basic principle of freeze-drying is the removal of water from a flower as water vapor by means of a vacuum, and collection of this water in a condenser. With the flower solidly frozen during the process, shrinkage is eliminated or minimized.
- What kind of equipment is needed to freeze-dry?
We use a Cuddon 1015 floral freeze dryer. The freeze dryer has a large specimen chamber, a condensing chamber and vacuum pump.
- How long do freeze-dried flowers last?
Since the freeze-drying of botanicals began in 1980s, it is still too early to say that freeze-dried flowers will last forever. However, when protected from humidity, sunlight, and extremes in heat and cold, freeze-dried flowers can last for many years.
- Why should I have my flowers preserved
Once flowers are used in a ceremony or given by someone, they become sentimental. Let us make those memories last by creating a floral keepsake. When you spend hundreds of dollars on flowers for one day, doesn't it make sense to preserve them for years?
- How long does the process take?
After your flowers are received, rehydrated and pretreated they go into the holding freezer until the freeze-drying machine is ready to load. Once in the machine, our process takes 7-8 days. The time to complete a design is typically 10 to 12 weeks.
- How soon should I get my flowers to you?
We prefer to receive flowers within 24 hours after the event. However, that may not be practical. If your wedding is on a Saturday, Monday would still be an acceptable day to bring or ship your flowers to us.
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