Welcome, lovely flower enthusiasts! As a florist who adores creating stunning bouquets and arrangements, I understand the excitement of bringing home a bouquet that can brighten your space for days to come. To help you maximize the lifespan of your cut flowers, I've put together a quick and easy guide. Let's dive in and discover the secrets to making your blooms last longer!
When trying to extend the longevity of your flowers, there are several "don'ts" to keep in mind. Avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure that your flowers stay fresh and vibrant for as long as possible. Here are some important points to consider:
- Don't neglect proper hydration. Check the water daily and replenish it as needed. Avoid allowing the water level in the vase to drop below the stems.
- Don't use dirty vases or containers. Dirty vases can harbor bacteria so its important to always use clean vases or containers and rinse them thoroughly before arranging your flowers.
- Don't expose flowers to direct sunlight or heat. Keep them away from radiators, heating vents, and windows that receive direct sunlight. Excessive heat can cause wilting and premature aging of the flowers.
- Don't place flowers near fruits or ripening produce. Bananas, apples, and tomatoes, produce ethylene gas, which can speed up the aging process of flowers. Avoid placing your flower arrangements near ripening produce to prevent premature wilting.
- Don't overlook trimming and removing wilted flowers. Trim the stems of your flowers regularly, preferably every few days, to promote water absorption. Also, remove any wilted flowers to prevent the spread of bacteria and maintain the overall freshness.
- Don't forget to change the water and add flower food. It's important to change the water in the vase every two to three days. Additionally, using flower food can provide essential nutrients and help extend the lifespan of your flowers.
Okay, so what do you do when you receive your flowers?
1. Remove wrapping paper, and prepare a clean vase with fresh water approximately half filled.
2. Gently remove the biodegradable water bag to reveal the stems. Do not remove the clear elastic band tied around the stems keeping the bouquet together.
3. Using a sharp knife or sharp secateurs, begin to cut 2 cm off the stem on a 45 degree angle. This will allow the flowers to drink more water and stay better hydrated.
4. Grab your vase or container and place the flowers in. Make sure all stems are in the water, if you need to add more water, do so.
5. Enjoy your fresh blooms and don't forget to tag @hansfordflowers in your social media posts!
Remember, despite your best efforts, flowers have a finite lifespan. Following these guidelines can help prolong their freshness, but eventually, they will naturally fade. Enjoy their beauty while they last and consider replacing them when necessary.
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