Florist’s Guide to Preventing Pampas Grass from Shedding
Pampas grass is a stunning, feathery element often used in floral arrangements, wedding décor, and home styling. However, one of its biggest challenges is excessive shedding, which can leave a mess and shorten its lifespan. This online flower shop guide will walk you through the best techniques to minimize shedding and keep your pampas grass looking beautiful for longer.
1. Why Does Pampas Grass Shed?
Shedding occurs because pampas grass consists of delicate, feathery plumes that naturally release small fibers over time. The main causes of shedding include:
Freshly harvested plumes that haven’t been dried or treated properly.
Movement and handling, which loosen fibers.
Air circulation and drafts, which can dislodge fluff.
Humidity and moisture, which can weaken the structure of the plumes.
2. How to Prevent Shedding
A. Shake & Fluff Before Use
Before arranging pampas grass, take it outside and give it a good shake. This will remove any loose fibers and prevent excess shedding later. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plumes.
B. Dry It Properly
If your pampas grass is fresh, allow it to dry completely before use. Hang it upside down in a warm, well-ventilated space for about 2-3 weeks. This will help set the plumes and reduce shedding.
C. Use Hairspray to Lock Fibers in Place
One of the best tricks to prevent shedding is spraying the plumes with a strong-hold hairspray. Here's how:
Hold the pampas grass at arm’s length.
Spray evenly with unscented strong-hold hairspray or a floral sealant.
Let it dry for 5-10 minutes.
Repeat the process if necessary for extra hold.
Tip: Avoid heavy application, which can make the plumes stiff.
D. Clear Matte Spray Sealer for Long-Term Protection
If you want a more permanent solution, use a clear matte spray sealer (like Krylon Clear Matte Finish). This provides a stronger hold than hairspray and keeps the plumes intact longer.
E. Keep Pampas Grass in a Still Environment
To minimize shedding, place pampas grass away from fans, air vents, and open windows. Constant air movement can dislodge fibers.
F. Avoid Excessive Handling
The more you touch or move pampas grass, the more likely it is to shed. Once arranged, leave it in place as much as possible.
3. How to Store Pampas Grass Without Shedding
If you need to store pampas grass for future use:
✔ Wrap it in tissue paper or a breathable fabric to prevent crushing.
✔ Store it in a dry place away from humidity.
✔ Reapply hairspray or sealer if you notice shedding before reusing.
4. Bonus Tip: Fluffing Without Shedding
If your pampas grass looks flat from storage, hold it near a gentle heat source (like a hairdryer on low or sunlight for a few hours). This will help fluff it without causing excessive shedding.
With the right care, pampas grass can be a long-lasting and elegant addition to floral arrangements and décor. By following these steps—shaking, drying, sealing, and minimizing handling—you can keep your pampas grass looking beautiful while reducing mess.
