Are dried flowers biodegradable?
Discover whether dried flowers are biodegradable, if you can compost them, and what you can do with your dead flowers to get the most out of them.
If you’re reading this, there’s a pretty good chance you love dried flowers just as much as we do. But what kind of impact are they having on the planet?
In this short and concise blog, we answer some of your most pressing, green-related questions, including:
- Are dried flowers biodegradable?
- How should I dispose of dead flowers?
- Can we use dried flowers for compost?
Let’s explore.
Are dried flowers biodegradable?
Determining whether dried flowers are 100% biodegradable or not depends on how the bouquet is made.
‘Biodegradable’ is an item capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms, consequently avoiding pollution. A biodegradable product will break down naturally and eventually decompose to be consumed by soil and other natural components.
This natural process means there’s less pollution created as no forced chemical reaction is needed to start the process.
With this in mind, for dried flowers to be biodegradable, they need to:
- Be 100% natural
- Use natural dyes
- Be plastic and glitter free (or use plant-based glitters)
Synthetic dyes used to enhance the colour of the petals or preserve the flowers are not biodegradable, as they leak toxic chemicals as they break down. In the same way, plastic and glitters are also not biodegradable.
Dried flowers that don’t cut the mustard will be discarded in general waste, which ends up in landfill or incinerated and produces harmful greenhouse gases.
So, before you purchase your flowers, do your homework. Find a company whose bouquets are natural and sustainably made.
What to do with dead flowers?
Dried flowers can still look beautiful, even after they’ve died.
And there are many things you can do with dried flowers with a touch of creativity. The options are truly endless, hence why we love them so much.
So, before throwing them in the compost, consider using them to create:
- Dried flower confetti that’s biodegradable
- Potpourri
- Flower petal beads
- Wreath
- Floral cleaner/room spray
- Bath products
- Gift wrapping decorations
- Baking and cooking ingredients or décor
Repurposing them takes creativity. But getting creative will allow you to get the most out of your beautiful bouquet.
Equally, if your fresh flowers have died, try drying your own to prolong the lifespan of your fresh flowers.
Can we use dried flowers for compost?
You can and should compost dead flowers where you can.
But again, it’s essential to check whether your flowers are biodegradable before chucking them in, as you don’t want to do more harm than good.
Depending on how the dried flower bouquet has been arranged, some parts won't be able to be put in the compost. For example, any mounted wire or foam base must be separated as that will not decompose.
Additionally, check that your flowers haven’t been dyed with synthetic colouring, as this can't go in the compost. If your dried flowers are natural, they can go in the compost, as withered and dried flowers are brown waste.
Buy biodegradable dried flowers
At The Last Bunch, we ensure our dried flowers are biodegradable, sustainable, and long-lasting.
From our mini bouquets to larger bunches for any occasion, our carefully curated process ensures your dried flowers are the best they can possibly be for the planet.
So, whether you want to surprise a loved one with a gorgeous bouquet or treat yourself, we have something for you. You can even pick your own.
Simply select your bouquet, place your order, and we’ll take care of the rest.
For more dried flower fun, be sure to follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.
