For their deep green color and huge size, magnolia leaves really stand out. They make beautiful additions to floral arrangements and holiday decor. But magnolia leaves are fragile and dry out quickly after being cut. If you know how to keep magnolia leaves fresh, you can enjoy their beauty for weeks or even months.
Why Magnolia Leaves Dry Out Quickly
There are a few reasons why magnolia leaves tend to dry out faster than other types of leaves:
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They have a thin cuticle layer – This waxy outer coating helps protect leaves from water loss but is very thin on magnolias,
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Large surface area – The wide shape exposes more of the leaf to air, accelerating water loss.
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Hollow air pockets – Air spaces within the leaf also promote moisture loss.
Magnolia leaves need extra care to stay fresh than harder leaves like holly or pine because they are so delicate. But with the right techniques, you can keep them looking their best.
Harvest at the Right Time
How well magnolia leaves last depends on when and how you pick them. Here are some tips .
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Pick leaves in the morning after the dew has dried but while it is still cool out. Avoid afternoon heat.
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Select leaves from the tips of branches for maximum freshness. Older leaves near the base dry out faster.
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Use clean, sharp pruners or scissors to snip leaves off neatly. Tearing causes more damage.
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Cut the stems about 2 to 3 inches long so they can take in water. Crush the ends slightly to further aid absorption.
Choosing young, vibrant leaves and cutting properly prevents excess moisture loss through damaged areas.
Use a Glycerin Bath
The most effective way to keep magnolia leaves supple and green is to glycerize them. This process replaces the natural fluids in the leaves with a humectant like glycerin or corn syrup.
Follow these steps:
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Heat 2 parts water to 1 part glycerin or corn syrup until dissolved. Allow to cool.
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Submerge your magnolia leaves in the solution, weighing them down to keep fully immersed.
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Soak for 5-10 days until leaves are flexible and translucent. Gently rinse in cool water and pat dry.
Glycerized leaves will remain preserved for months or even years without drying out. The glycerin prevents moisture loss and decay.
Mist Frequently
If you don’t want to glycerize your magnolia leaves, you can still prolong their freshness by misting them regularly with water.
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Keep leaves in a vase or damp paper towels to retain moisture.
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Mist leaves at least once daily, ideally in the morning and evening when temperatures are lower.
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Spray both sides of leaves evenly to prevent spotty drying.
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Consider adding floral preservative to the water for extra protection.
Frequent misting replenishes the moisture that magnolia leaves rapidly lose to evaporation. Just take care not to oversaturate them.
Offer Protection from Dry Air
Environmental conditions can also cause magnolia leaves to dry out faster. Here are some ways to protect them:
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Display leaves out of direct sunlight to limit water loss.
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Keep away from heating vents which circulate hot, dry air.
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Place leaves in an enclosed glass case or cloche to maintain higher humidity.
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During cold snaps, move arrangements indoors to prevent cold damage.
Controlling the surrounding air prevents moisture from evaporating rapidly out of the thin magnolia leaves.
Apply a Sealant Spray
Special leaf sealants can create a protective coating to retard drying. Options include:
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Floral sprays like Crowning Glory which offer shine and prevent water loss.
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Clear acrylic sprays like Mod Podge which completely seal and preserve leaves.
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Vegetable oil or coatings like paste wax which add a light barrier.
Apply several light coats of sealant spray to both leaf surfaces, allowing each to fully dry in between. This locks existing moisture into the leaf.
Choose Complementary Decorations
When using magnolia leaves in holiday or floral decor, combine them with other natural materials that help keep everything hydrated:
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Include fresh flowers or greens that release moisture into the air.
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Surround leaves with moss in centerpieces and arrangements.
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Place leaves over damp Oasis foam to absorb water.
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Use water beads, soaked florist foam, or cut fresh stems in vase displays.
These tricks raise humidity levels around the magnolias so they dry out more slowly.
Know When It’s Time
With proper care, you can extend the life of your magnolia leaves for weeks or months. But they will eventually dry up. Signs it’s time to replace them include:
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Leaves become stiff, brittle, or crunchy
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Green color fades to tan or brown
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Edges turn brown or crispy
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Leaves begin falling off stems
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Stems appear dry or shriveled
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Leaves develop brown spotting
Catch deterioration early before magnolia leaves spoil your beautiful decorations. Knowing how to keep them fresh longer lets you enjoy their elegance season after season.
How To Finish The Grapevine Wreath
Finally, you will add some smaller leaves for the fourth row. You only need to add leaves where the grapevine is exposed or where gaps may be visible in the first three rows.
The final step is to add a few leaves with the brown side of the leaf exposed. I only added a few reverse leaves. However, you can add as many as you desire. Examine your wreath for any gaps or loose leaves before hanging.
To Preserve Or Not To Preserve
In the past, I’ve always preserved my leaves to prolong the glossy finish of my Magnolia wreath. However, I was running short on time, so I didn’t preserve the leaves on my latest wreath, which I still displayed 11 months later. Yes, the leaves had curled but had taken on a silvery hue perfect for fall decorating.
However, I want to share the easiest way to preserve the leaves. There are a few things that can make the leaves look new longer, so it’s not certain if your wreath will last as long as mine.
- It seems that cutting the tree’s leaves in the winter makes them last longer than when it’s warm outside.
- The heat inside your home will dry your wreath quickly no matter where you put it. Avoid sunlight and heat ducts.
- Your wreath might last longer if you put it outside, but don’t put it where it will be blown around.
I didn’t preserve the leaves on this wreath, and 11 months later, I’m still displaying it. It has dried to a beautiful silvery sage green and still looks perfect in the farmhouse.
Avoid These 5 Five Mistakes When Growing and Planting Magnolias
FAQ
How long will magnolia leaves last after being cut?
Magnolia branches cut off are put into moist soil outside, and the leaves will last for weeks. They add structure and presence to any arrangement. Dec 18, 2020.
How to make magnolia leaves shiny without?
You can polish the leaves with a soft cloth for 15 to 20 seconds at a time to make them shine.
How do you keep magnolia leaves from turning brown?
Giving the plant deep watering helps the roots grow and keeps the leaves moist, but be careful not to water too much, as that can cause other problems. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the magnolias can help retain moisture in the soil and moderate soil temperatures, providing some protection from heat.
How to make cut magnolia last longer?
Flowers should always be placed in a clean vase with room-temperature clean water. Change the water every 2-3 days to ensure the water is clean and fresh.
Can You preserve magnolia leaves?
Magnolia leaves are known for their beauty, both in their natural state and when dried and preserved. Preserving magnolia leaves can be a fun and simple DIY project that allows you to enjoy their unique shape and deep green color year-round. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you preserve magnolia leaves for display or crafting purposes. 1.
How do you take care of a magnolia tree?
In late fall or early winter, before the first hard frost, collect magnolia leaves that are still fresh and supple. You can also use leaves that have fallen to the ground. Avoid leaves that are brown or have been damaged by pests. Start by gently washing the leaves in cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
How do you keep magnolia leaves fresh for Christmas?
To ensure the magnolia garland survives any harsh frosts or freezes, it’s best to keep each strand wrapped in plastic overnight. For further protection, consider wrapping furniture blankets or canvas on top of the plastic. The handmade holiday experts at HGTV.com share tips for keeping magnolia leaves fresh for Christmas crafting all season long.
How to grow a magnolia tree?
1. Gather Your Materials: You will need a pair of pruning shears, magnolia leaves, glycerin, water, a deep tray or container, a weight or brick, paper towels, and wax paper. 2. Choose the Right Leaves: Look for healthy, undamaged magnolia leaves with good color and shape. Avoid those with signs of disease or insect damage. 3.
Do Magnolia Leaves need to be dried?
The leaves need to be harvested fresh but then fully dried before using any preservation technique. How long do preserved magnolia leaves last? With proper drying, sealing, and storage, magnolia leaves preserved with Mod Podge or glycerin can last 6-12 months. Avoid humidity, heat, or direct light which shortens their lifespan.
What can I do with dried magnolia leaves?
Once that final step is done and the front and back of your leaves are completely dry it is time to get creating. You can use your leaves to create a magnolia leaf wreath or add to a faux greenery garland to make it more realistic. The possibilities here are endless and completely up to you.