Hey there! If you’re like me, you love the look of a beautiful boxwood wreath hanging on your front door or inside your home. But, as anyone who has owned one knows, keeping it looking fresh and green can be a challenge. That’s why I’ve put together this guide on how to preserve boxwood and keep your wreaths looking gorgeous all year long.
This post is all about how to preserve boxwood!
This blog contains affiliate links which may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Method 1: Using Glycerin
One of the most popular methods for preserving boxwood wreaths is using glycerin. Glycerin is a natural substance and it can be found at most craft stores or online. It works by replacing the moisture in the leaves with glycerin, which helps to keep them supple and prevent them from drying out and turning brown.
To use glycerin to preserve your boxwood wreath, mix one part glycerin to two parts water in a large container. Submerge the wreath in the solution and let it soak for two to three weeks. Completely submerge the wreath and weigh it down if necessary.
After the wreath has soaked for the appropriate amount of time, remove it from the solution and gently pat it dry with a towel. You may notice that the leaves are a bit softer than they were before, but they should still be green and supple.
Using glycerin is a great way to preserve your boxwood wreath. However, instead of soaking the wreath for two to three weeks, you can speed up the process by boiling the solution. Heat one part glycerin and two parts water in a pot until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat and let the solution cool. Then, submerge the wreath in the solution for 20-30 minutes. Afterward, remove the wreath and let it dry completely before hanging it up.
Method 2: Using a Water and Vinegar Solution
Another super effective method for preserving boxwood wreaths is using a water and vinegar solution. This method works by creating an acidic environment that helps to prevent mold and bacteria from growing on the leaves.
To use this method, mix one part vinegar to three parts water in a large container. Submerge the wreath in the solution and let it soak for 24 hours. Remove the wreath from the solution and gently pat it dry with a towel. You may notice a slight vinegar smell, but this should fade within a few days.
If you are concerned about the vinegar smell, you can add a few drops of essential oil to the solution to mask the odor. Additionally, instead of letting the wreath soak in the solution for 24 hours, you can place the wreath on a towel and spray the solution on the leaves until they are damp. Then, let the wreath air dry before hanging it up.
Method 3: Using a Spray Sealer
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to preserve your boxwood wreath, you may consider a spray sealer. You can find spray sealers at most craft stores or online, and they create a protective barrier on the leaves that prevents them from drying out and turning brown.
To use a spray sealer, simply spray the wreath evenly on both sides with the sealer and let it dry completely. You may need to do a few coats to ensure that the entire wreath is covered. Once the sealer has dried, your wreath should look shiny and new.
When using a spray sealer, make sure to spray both the front and back of the wreath to ensure complete coverage. Additionally, before spraying the wreath, make sure it is completely dry to prevent water spots.
Bonus Tips
In addition to these three methods, there are a few other tips and tricks you can use to keep your boxwood wreath looking fresh and green:
- Keep your wreath out of direct sunlight. Boxwood wreaths are sensitive to sunlight and can quickly dry out and turn brown if exposed to too much sun.
- Avoid getting your wreath wet. Water can cause boxwood leaves to turn brown, so it’s best to keep your wreath out of the rain or any other source of moisture.
- Consider using a UV spray. If you plan on hanging your wreath outside, a UV spray can help to protect it from the damaging effects of the sun’s rays.
With these three methods and bonus tips, you should be able to preserve your boxwood wreath and keep it looking beautiful for months to come. Whether you choose to use glycerin, a water and vinegar solution, or a spray sealer, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and handle your wreath gently to avoid damaging the delicate leaves. With a little bit of effort, your boxwood wreath will stay beautiful for years to come!
Did you enjoy this post?
Check out these other posts related to home decor: