Whether you’ve received a stunning bouquet as a gift or picked out your favourite blooms from the local florist, it’s always disappointing when they start to wilt too soon. The good news is that with a little extra care and attention, you can extend the lifespan of your flowers and enjoy their beauty for longer. Let’s explore how.
#1: The Art Of Cutting Stems
The first step towards keeping your flowers fresh is to cut their stems correctly. The technique you employ while doing this can affect the flower’s water absorption capacity and its freshness. Follow this approach:
- Angle the Cut: When you cut your flowers, ensure to do so at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. An angled cut increases the surface area for water intake.
- Re-Cut the Stems: It’s recommended to re-cut your stems every few days. A fresh cut helps prevent the bottom of the stem from sealing up, thus promoting better water intake.
#2: Proper Hydration Is Key
Keeping your flowers hydrated with plenty of fresh water is one of the simplest ways to maintain their freshness. Make sure to:
- Check Water Levels: Check the water level daily and refill the vase as needed.
- Use Lukewarm Water: The shock of cold water might impede flowers’ ability to hydrate properly. So, use lukewarm water.
#3: Use Flower Food
Flower food or floral preservative provides the necessary nutrients for your cut flowers and helps them last longer. You can consider:
- Commercial Flower Food: Available at most local gardening stores or online, flower food comes with instructions on the packet for the right quantity to use.
- Homemade Flower Food: If you can’t find flower food, you can whip up your own. Combine two tablespoons of lemon juice, one tablespoon of sugar and half a teaspoon of bleach in four cups of water.
#4: Location Matters
While flowers in the garden love soaking up the sun, cut flowers prefer a more shaded life. Positioning your bouquet correctly can affect its lifespan. Consider a place where you can:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Excessive heat can dehydrate your flowers, leading to premature wilting. It’s best to choose a cool, shady spot for your bouquet.
- Keep Away from Appliances: Household appliances like televisions or ovens emit heat which can damage your flowers. Place your bouquet away from such appliances.
#5: A Clean Vase For Healthy Flowers
A clean vase is important for the longevity of your blooms, as it helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Keep these points in mind:
- Clean Before Use: Always clean your vase with hot, soapy water before you add your flowers.
- Regular Cleaning: Don’t forget to clean the vase every time you change the water.
Let The Beauty Of Blooms Unfold
At Suncoast Flowers, our selection of flowers isn’t just fresh—it’s also diverse, ensuring there’s something to suit every mood, occasion and personal preference. As soon as you step inside our shop, you’ll be greeted with beautiful colours and floral scents. Visit us today or shop online!