Making a Gift of Flowers Last

Cut flowers are often thought of only for special occasions. The Flower Promotion Organization estimates that “…more than 180 million stems of roses will be bestowed on sweethearts around the world” on Valentine’s Day!

Beautiful bouquets of cut flowers can turn any room into a garden. Whether you receive them as a gift, buy them yourself or grow your own, sometimes even the best gardeners have trouble keeping their cut flowers fresh and blooming indoors. Much depends on how fresh the flowers were when bought, but there are some tips that get your flowers off to a running start and keep them blooming.

What to look for when selecting cut flowers
~ flower stems should be green and smooth, not slimy
~ water should smell fresh
~ no broken stems or drooping buds

Before you put them into the vase
~ keep flowers cool, until placed into water
~ make a fresh cut an inch or two up the stem, while stem is under water
~ make sure the vase and cutting tools are clean
~ remove any leaves that will be below the water surface
~ use the packet of flower food that comes with your flowers

Caring for your cut flowers
~ keep cut flowers out of direct sunlight
~ change the water frequently (every other day)
~ make a fresh cut each time you change the water

Good choices for long lasting cut flower
~ Alstroemeria (6-14 days): Very popular. Sensitive to fluoride in water and ethylene gas. Keep away from produce
~ Carnations (7-14 days): Extremely dependable
~ Delphiniums (7-14 days): sensitive to ethylene gas
~ Roses (6-12 days): The classic. With over 20,000 varieties, never boring.

Floral arranging shortcut
Use a toothbrush holder as a vase and you will achieve perfect symmetry every time. Simply fill the toothbrush holder with water, and tuck one or two stems in each hole. Then take a step back and admire your handiwork!