Florist flowers – essential care tips
When you buy florist flowers or you place a flower order online, the last thing anyone wants is for their blooms to perish within a few days or shortly after arriving. While it is important to choose quality blooms from a reputable florist, it is also important that you take proper care of your cut flowers from the moment they enter your home. Here are some essential care tips that are even more important during the warmer months of the year.
Water needs
One of the most basic needs of every bouquet is water. Florist flowers, no matter how perfect they are, will perish in no time if they are left out of water for too long. When flowers are attached to the plant, they receive water and nutrients via their stems. Once cut, they are no longer indirectly connected to the root system and this means that your vase with water will take on the role of the roots. If you receive flowers that look a bit wilted or dehydrated, you should submerge them completely in cool, clean water for at least 30 minutes before transferring them to a vase. If you notice that they don’t look any better after half an hour, leave them for another 30 minutes and check on them regularly until you are satisfied with their appearance. It’s also a good idea to trim the stems under water as soon as they arrive so that they can absorb water easily.
Nutrients
Just like any other living thing, water is not enough to keep florist flowers happy. You need to offer them some nutrients too. Make sure that you look for the package of flower food included with the bouquet. Read the instructions before using it and be sure to dissolve the contents properly in water before adding your stems. These packages include everything the flowers need to thrive and live longer. They also help slow the growth of bacteria in the vase water which also prolongs the life of your bouquet. You will need to change the vase water every couple of days. If you don’t have enough flower food to last you the lifespan of the flowers, you can make your own. Most recipes include something sweet like sugar and a pH regulating ingredient like bleach.
Different types of flowers
Another important point to consider when ordering florist flowers is that they are not all the same. Different types of blooms have different lifespans. For example, carnations usually last longer than tulips. By doing a little research, you will be better prepared and able to choose blooms that will last at least a week or two.
Partial buds
If possible, look for a florist that offers flowers in partial bud form. If the flowers are completely opened, it won’t be long before they start to wilt. Partial buds are great because you can be sure that they will open fully (unlike tight buds) and you will get to enjoy them for that much longer.
Extra sweet scent
If you bought a bouquet of florist flowers that does not have much of a scent, not to worry. You can add something like spray on fabric softener to give them a sweet smell. Just make sure that you do some research before using just about anything you find in your home! Not all substances are safe for flowers.
By following these guidelines, you will get so much more out of your florist flowers every time. No matter what, if your flowers arrive and they look wilted, you should refuse the delivery and contact your florist right away to find out how they plan on remedying the situation.