Summer time is when we frequently get asked why our flowers last so much longer thanthe flowers fresh picked from your own garden. One reason is the professional care and handling we have learned as florists. Although the average gardener won’t have all the tools of the trade at hand, I’ve compiled a list of simple tips that will help you make the most of your cutting garden.
- Cut the flowers at an angle with a sharp *tool very early in the morning before the dew dries. That way they won’t be thirsty from hours in the hot sun and they will hydrate quickly.
- Dedicate a pair of *sharp scissors, clippers, or a knife, used only for flowers so that it remains sharp and won’t squish the stems when cutting. Disinfect the blade after each use to prevent bacteria from entering the flower stems.
- When possible bring a clean bucket filled halfway with warm water and flower food out to the garden. (We sell consumer packs of the food) Remove all foliage that will be below the water line after you cut the flower and place directly in the water. (If you can’t carry the water out to the garden, re-cut the flowers when you bring them in, using the same procedure.)
- Leave the bucket of flowers in a cool, dark room until the water cools or longer if you aren’t ready to arrange them. Then fill your vase with cool water and arrange your flowers, cutting them to size with the sharp, clean scissors. Be sure to change the water daily and re-cut the flowers to prevent bacteria from clogging the stems and clouding the water. Remove flowers as they fade because they produce ethylene, which will cause the remaining blooms to fade faster.
- Last but certainly not least, take care to keep flowers and plants out of your pets reach. Eating certain plants can cause stomach upset, rashes, and even death. For more tips on keeping your four legged friends safe check out http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-owners/basics/top-10-plants-poisonous-to-pets/
Tags: how to care for flowers