Flowers are a timeless and thoughtful gift that can brighten up any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just because, receiving a newly delivered bouquet can bring a smile to anyone’s face.
However, to keep them looking fresh and vibrant for as long as possible, you must know how to care for them.
Caring for newly delivered flowers requires a bit of effort and more-than-a-few steps, but keeping them beautiful is well worth it. From cutting the stems to choosing the right vase, there are measures you can take to extend the life of your flowers.
This guide will explore some of them, so you can enjoy their beauty and appeal for as long as possible.
- Unpack The Flowers Carefully
The moment you receive a bouquet of flowers, you must handle it with utmost care. Most flowers are particularly delicate; even minor impact or unintentional mishandling can cause their stems or petals to break or fall.
Start by carefully removing the flowers from the packaging. Be gentle when handling the stems and petals to avoid damaging them. If the flowers are wrapped in paper, slowly unwrap them to avoid tearing the delicate blooms.
Once you’ve removed the flowers from the packaging, inspect them for any signs of wilting or other damage. If you notice any, carefully remove the bad parts from the bouquet. This will help the remaining flowers stay healthy and vibrant.
On a separate note, your chosen florist can also impact the quality and lifespan of your delivered flowers. Whether you’re the one sending or ordering flowers for a particular event or occasion, hire one that uses fresh and long-lasting flowers. You can read tips for choosing the best florist or ask your close friends or relatives for recommendations.
- Cut The Stems
After unpacking the flowers, it’s time to prepare them for display. Begin by cutting the stems at a 45-degree angle. This will give them the best surface area for water absorption.
Using pruning shears or sharp scissors to make a clean cut would be best. Dull scissors or torn stems will only damage the flowers.
- Choose The Right Vase
Choosing the right vase is crucial. It should be clean and free of any dirt or debris. It should also be the right size for the bouquet. An undersized vase will cramp the flowers, while an oversized one will make it difficult to arrange them.
When selecting a vase, consider the type of flowers you have. For example, a tall vase may be ideal for a bouquet of long-stemmed roses. If you have a mixed set with different types, a wider vase works better; it gives you enough space to arrange the flowers and ensure they have enough room to bloom.
- Add Water And Flower Food
Like other living things, your flowers need water and food to thrive and survive.
You read that right; besides water, flower food is essential for keeping blooms healthy and vibrant. It provides the necessary nutrients and helps prevent bacteria growth.
Fill the vase with lukewarm water and add the flower food according to the package instructions.
When adding water to the vase, go about two-thirds full. This will provide enough water for the flowers to drink without overflowing the vase. Also, be sure to change it every few days to prevent bacterial growth and keep the flowers fresh.
- Use Floral Preservatives
In addition to flower food, you can also use floral preservatives to keep your flowers fresh.
Floral preservatives contain ingredients that inhibit bacterial growth and keep the water clean. You can find them at most florists or garden centres. Always use them according to the instructions on the package.
- Remove Foliage
When preparing your flowers for display, remove any foliage that might be submerged in the water. It can rot and attract bacteria, shortening the life of the flowers. Use a pair of scissors to carefully remove leaves that are already below the waterline.
- Re-cut The Stems
After a few days, you may notice that the stems of your flowers have become slimy or discoloured. This is a sign that bacteria are growing in the water.
To address this, re-cut the stems at an angle and change the water. This will help the flowers absorb fresh water and stay healthy.
- Mist The Flowers
Some flowers, such as roses, benefit from being misted with water. It can keep them hydrated and prevent the petals from drying out. You can use a spray bottle of lukewarm water to mist the flowers once a day.
- Display The Flowers In The Right Location
Finally, it’s crucial to display the flowers in the right location. Choose a spot away from direct sunlight, heat, and drafts. The former can cause the flowers to wilt, while the latter two can cause them to dry out. A cool, shady spot is ideal for keeping the flowers fresh and healthy.
You must also consider the room’s humidity levels when displaying the flowers. If the room is dry, consider adding a humidifier to keep the air moist and protect the flowers from drying out and wilting.
Wrapping Up
Ultimately, caring for newly delivered flowers is all about attention to detail. These can also be skills you teach your kids to help them appreciate nature.
In the meantime, remember these tips to keep your newly delivered flowers fresh and enjoy them for days or even weeks.
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