| Flower Care |
| How can I make my flowers last longer? |
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| Certain varieties of cut flowers last longer than others.
Carnations, for example, can remain vibrant for long periods.
Roses have a shorter vase life, but are prized for their special
and delicate beauty. When buying flowers, be sure to ask your
florist how long you should expect your arrangement to last.
Whatever variety you choose, a little TLC will go a long way
to keep your blooms looking fresh longer. Here are a few handy
tips that can help add days to their beauty! |
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| Essentials for your flowers |
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| Keep them in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit;
18 to 22 degrees Celsius), away from direct sunlight, heating
or cooling vents, direct drafts from a ceiling fan, and the
tops of televisions or radiators. (Appliances like televisions
give off heat, causing flowers to dehydrate.) |
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| When your
flowers arrive in wet foam |
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| Keep the floral foam soaked in water containing floral
food provided by your florist. Be sure to follow the directions
on the package. |
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| When your
flowers are arranged in water |
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Keep the vase filled with water containing floral food
provided by your florist. Be sure to follow the directions on
the package.
If the solution becomes cloudy, replace it entirely. If possible,
recut the stems by removing one to two inches with a sharp knife.
Remove leaves that will be below the waterline. Leaves in water
will promote bacterial growth that can harm the flowers. |
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| When your
flowers have woody stems and branches (such as Quince, Forsythia, or
Lilac) |
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| Cut the stem with sharp pruning shears. Place in warm
water containing fresh floral food to promote flower opening. |
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| What is
floral food and why use it? |
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| Floral food is a combination of additives that help
to nourish the flowers and discourage bacteria from growing
in the water. It is one of the best—and easiest—ways
to extend the life of your flowers. It is very important to
follow the directions on the package correctly. Improperly mixed
floral food can do more harm than good. |
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