Caring For Spring Flowers
Spring brings us an endless number of blooms. Whether we decorate our homes with favourites such as tulips, daffodils, lilies and irises, or a more exotic variety like bird of paradise or anthurium, we relish their charm and beauty. But there’s nothing worse than seeing one of your exquisite arrangements fade before its time, so we’ve found some great tips to help you make the most of them.
Once you separate a flower from its plant you need to give it a new source of food and water. As soon as you make this initial cut, put the bloom in water to prevent the stem sealing itself while you find the perfect vase.
Clean any vase you use thoroughly with warm soapy water as any contamination in it shortens the flower’s life span. Use good clean tap water and add some ‘flower food’ – it’s a combination of nutrients for plants and you can pick some up at your local florist. Follow the instructions carefully and you’re on the right track to extending their vibrancy.
Cut the ends of the stems a minimum of one inch before you put them in the vase, plus whatever else needs to come off for it to fit into it. Make it a clean cut at a 45-degree angle with a sharp knife – the smoother the cut, the more water travels through the flower. Be sure to take off any leaves below the water line – this not only improves the overall presentation but also prevents any bacterial growth in the water. If the water becomes grey and murky over time, change it and cut the stems again.
Keep in mind the positioning of flowers in your home – they don’t like extremes so don’t pick a spot that is overly warm or too cool. Also, keep them away from wind and bright light. Some flowers such as tulips tend to grow towards the sun so be aware of this when putting them near windows in strong sunlight.
Remember that certain varieties of flowers last longer than others – carnations for example have a long vase life whereas roses don’t. To find out which flowers are best for your home, talk to the florist next time you buy a stunning spring bouquet.
Extra Tips
- Lukewarm water – not hot – helps your blooms open faster.
- Lily pollen stains. Be careful when you’re handling lilies or displaying this favourite spring flower on tablecloths. Trimming the pollen stem once the flower has opened prevents this.
- If your flowers seem a bit tired when you get them – don’t worry, they’re probably just thirsty.
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