Flower Care 101: Expert Tips to Keep Your Blooms Fresh and Vibrant Longer
Flowers have a magical way of brightening our day, adding a splash of colour and joy to our lives. But how can we ensure our stunning bouquets stay fresh and vibrant for as long as possible? In this comprehensive guide, we'll share expert tips and tricks for flower care so you can enjoy your beautiful blooms for days. Whether you've just received a stunning arrangement from Mr Roses in Brisbane or picked up a bouquet from your local florist, these essential flower care tips will help your flowers look their best for longer.
1. Choose the Right Flowers
When selecting flowers, opt for those with firm, unopened buds, as they'll generally last longer than blooms that are already fully open. Look for vibrant colours and fresh green leaves, indicators of healthy, fresh flowers.
2. Give Your Flowers a Fresh Cut
When you bring your flowers home, give the stems a fresh cut at a 45-degree angle. This will create a larger surface area for water absorption, ensuring your blooms stay hydrated. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the stems.
3. Remove Lower Leaves
Strip off any leaves that would be submerged in water when placed in a vase, as they can rot and encourage bacterial growth, shortening the life of your flowers. However, leave some leaves on the stem, as they help the flower absorb water and nutrients.
4. Choose the Right Vase
Select a vase that will comfortably accommodate your flower arrangement and provide ample support for the stems. Clean the vase thoroughly to remove any bacteria, which can cause flowers to wilt prematurely.
5. Prepare the water.
Fill your vase with room temperature water and add a packet of flower food or a homemade preservative solution (1 part sugar, 1 part lemon juice, and 2 parts water). This will provide essential nutrients to the flowers and help them stay fresher for longer.
6. Keep Your Flowers Hydrated
Check the water level in your vase daily, and top it up as needed. Every two days, change the water completely and clean the vase to prevent bacteria buildup. Give the stems another fresh cut when you change the water to improve water uptake.
7. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat Sources
Place your flowers in a cool, shaded spot away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or appliances that generate heat, as these can cause your blooms to wilt and fade more quickly.
8. Maintain Humidity
Flowers thrive in humid environments. If you live in a dry climate or have air conditioning, consider placing a small dish of water near your vase to create a more humid microclimate for your flowers.
9. Regularly Groom Your Flowers
Monitor your flowers daily and remove any wilted petals, leaves, or stems. This keeps your arrangement looking fresh and prevents the spread of bacteria.
10. Keep Away from Fruit and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables release ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to age more rapidly. Keep your blooms away from your fruit bowl or vegetable storage area to prevent this.
Conclusion
With a bit of extra care and attention, you can keep your flowers looking fresh and vibrant for a longer period. By following these expert flower care tips, you'll ensure that your stunning bouquets and arrangements continue to bring joy to your home for days to come.