How Long Does Preserved Moss Last? And How To Keep It Fresh!

Y’all, I love using natural elements in my decor, and today I’m going to answer the question “How Long Does Preserved Moss Last?” and share “How to Keep It Looking New with an easy solution.”

I’m starting to pull out my stored Spring and Summer decor, and some of my preserved moss pieces need a little refresh. See how easy it is to make them look brand new.

---

(Posts on The Ponds Farmhouse may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See the full disclosure details here.)

---

What is Preserved Moss, and is it real?

First, preserved moss is real. It’s harvested from forests, where it grows naturally around trees and on the ground.

The moss is put through a preservation process to retain its softness and natural color.

Preserved vs. Dried Moss

If you prefer a natural-looking green moss, you always want to choose preserved vs. dried moss.

Dried moss, as the name suggests, has been dehydrated and will quickly turn brown and will not last as long as preserved moss.

---

How do you use Preserved Moss?

One of the most common uses for preserved moss is around floral and greenery arrangements. I like to keep a supply of this moss on hand for my many projects.

It’s perfect for covering over the styrofoam or other elements that are holding the arrangement together. It looks great without requiring any special care.

You can see two different ways to use on these diy topiaries and these boxwood topiaries.

Indoors, the natural green color of the moss will look great for years.

You can also purchase sheet moss, and that’s what I used on these Shamrock Placemats for St. Paddy’s Day!

I also have several moss balls that I use in my decor, such as those that I used on my porch last year.

The large moss balls began to fade quickly when exposed to the sun, but never fear; I’m going to share how to freshen them.

How Long Does Preserved Moss Last?

When used indoors, away from direct sunlight, the answer is many years. It may need a careful dusting, but it will look great for years.

I have had this moss piece for at least 20 years, and it still looks great.

At the time I purchased this piece, I also purchased this topiary. However, it’s been exposed to sunlight on my screened porch.

If you like the brown moss, it’s still great to use, but if you prefer the green color, there is a solution.

How to Freshen Preserved Moss

This is such an easy solution to prolong the life of your moss pieces and keep them fresh-looking.

All you need is:

• water
• green food coloring
• spray bottle

First, prepare a place to spray your moss or spray outdoors. The food coloring will stain if not removed immediately from surfaces.

Mix a small amount of water, approx. 1/2 cup with 4-5 drops of green food coloring and shake to mix.

If you have several projects, you can increase the quantities.

Spray the moss with the solution until the entire area is green again.

Once covered, be sure to catch any drips with paper towels.

The container is covered with preserved leaves and the food coloring method worked great for this as well.

Almost New Preserved Moss

The moss may not look as fresh as it did 20 years ago, however it looks so much better.

These moss balls were also refreshed with the green food coloring.

I love using preserved moss in my decor. This book club table centerpiece is filled with balls of moss that I’ve refreshed with this technique.

I wish I had a link to the moss stems, but they were purchased several years ago at Pier 1 Imports, and they no longer sell floral stems.

Here, I used the preserved moss balls on the front porch sitting area for Spring. However, I will bring them indoors after when I don’t have guests, to prolong their lovely green color.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can this technique be used on other preserved greenery, such as boxwood? Yes, however, boxwood isn’t as absorbent as the moss and may require multiple applications to achieve the same result.
2. Can I use paint mixed with water instead of food coloring? Paint will dry hard compared to the food coloring and will not look as natural. The wrong mixture could damage the moss and make it look fake.
3. Can I use gel food coloring? The gel food coloring works best mixed with solids and may not mix as well with water; therefore, your safe bet is the liquid.

---

Resources

Click Images Below To Shop

---

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope you found this helpful.

Pin It To Remember It

Did you find some great ideas you’d like to save for future reference? Hover over the images you’d like to save and pin to your favorite Pinterest Boards when you see the PIN button.