The methods used to maintain the natural appearance of plant leaves, stems, and other green components, ensuring their longevity beyond their natural lifespan, encompass a variety of techniques. This process stabilizes the cellular structure, preventing decomposition and maintaining aesthetic qualities. Examples include pressing, drying, using desiccants, and applying chemical treatments.
Maintaining the visual integrity of plant materials serves multiple purposes. It allows for the creation of lasting decorative arrangements, provides valuable resources for scientific study and herbaria, and enables the preservation of botanical specimens for educational displays. Historically, these practices have been essential for documenting plant life and preserving natural beauty.