How to Care for Stabilized Lichen (Spoiler: You Don't Need It!)

Summary:

1. Stabilized lichen: what it is and why it's perfect for those who don't want to take care of their plants

2. The ideal environmental conditions to maintain freshness and color

3. Minimal and simple cleaning: how to remove dust safely

4. The main mistakes to avoid to prolong the lifespan

5. Real durability and support in indoor environments

1. Stabilized lichen: what it is and why it's perfect for those who don't want to take care of their plants

Preserved lichen is a natural plant that undergoes a specific preservation process that stops its life cycle without altering its shape, color, or consistency. During this phase, the lichen's natural sap is replaced with a solution of biodegradable glycerin and natural pigments, ensuring softness, elasticity, and a deep, long-lasting color. Unlike live plants, preserved lichen does not require sunlight, watering, or pruning , and maintains its appearance for many years—often more than 10, in suitable environments.

This feature makes it ideal for all those interior spaces where natural greenery is desired but daily maintenance is difficult or impossible: offices, lobbies, professional studios, shops, restaurants, or private homes. Even those without a green thumb can enjoy the aesthetic and psychological benefits of greenery without worrying about maintenance. MossHouse offers solutions that combine aesthetics and functionality, ideal for those seeking a completely green decoration without the hassle .

2. The ideal environmental conditions to maintain freshness and color

Although preserved lichen requires no active maintenance, to ensure its maximum lifespan and maintain its pristine appearance, it is important to place it in environments that meet certain minimum environmental conditions. The optimal temperature range is between 10°C and 26°C , while relative humidity should remain between 40% and 60% . These parameters allow the lichen to remain soft, flexible, and visually attractive, without drying out or crumbling.

Furthermore, lichen is naturally antistatic , meaning it tends to repel dust more than other decorative materials. This helps keep it visually clean for a long time. However, it is essential to avoid direct exposure to sunlight, especially near unshielded windows, as UV rays can cause discoloration over time. If properly positioned and protected from changes in weather, it can maintain its beauty for many years, even in rooms with artificial lighting.

3. Minimal and simple cleaning: how to remove dust safely

Preserved lichen doesn't require watering, fertilizer, or light, but it can collect dust over time, especially if placed in environments with constant airflow or near high-traffic areas. However, cleaning is also quick, easy, and completely safe . Never use detergents, alcohol, or water, as they could damage the material's structure and balance. To remove excess dust, simply use a soft-bristled brush , a feather duster , or, for larger panels, a hair dryer set to cool and low .

These simple tasks can be performed very infrequently—even once or twice a year may be sufficient, depending on the environment. This makes lichen perfect for high-level installations or in hard-to-reach spaces where human intervention is limited. MossHouse also offers on-demand maintenance services for large-scale projects or professional environments that want to ensure the highest aesthetic standards over time.

4. The main mistakes to avoid to prolong the lifespan

Preserved lichen is resistant, but not indestructible. To ensure its long life and avoid premature deterioration, there are some fundamental precautions to follow. First, it should never be watered or sprayed with water : excess moisture can compromise the stabilizing treatment and cause discoloration or stiffness. Likewise, direct exposure to sunlight , even filtered through glass, should be avoided to prevent discoloration.

It's also important not to place it outdoors , where it's exposed to rain, wind, and sudden changes in temperature: lichen is designed exclusively for indoor environments. Finally, it must be handled with care : frequent impacts, rubbing, or direct, continuous contact with hands can deteriorate the structure or detach fragments. By following these simple rules, lichen can remain beautiful and intact for a very long time, offering a long-lasting natural effect that is always pleasant to the eye and touch .

5. Real durability and support in indoor environments

With the right environmental conditions and no mismanagement, preserved lichen can maintain its optimal state for 10 years or more . It is one of the most long-lasting decorative choices among natural materials used indoors. Unlike live plants or cut flowers, lichen does not wilt, does not lose color, and does not require any type of seasonal renewal .

For large-scale installations, such as green walls, company logos, or artistic compositions, we offer comprehensive support , from design to after-sales service. The company assists individuals and professionals in choosing materials, provides instructions for proper placement, and offers scheduled maintenance , especially in commercial or high-traffic environments. All products are handcrafted in Italy with certified materials to ensure aesthetics, durability, and sustainability.