Sunday, January 17, 2010

Tips That Can Make Your Bouquets Last

By Peter Silva

Flowers are really popular to send to loved ones on special occasions such as Valentines Day, Mother's Day, weddings, and anniversaries. Places such as homes and offices are more lively and comfortable when flowers decorate the place. What makes these gifts of nature so great is that they look and smell amazing. They have bright colors, unique shapes, and they have the most wonderful scents only nature can give.

The only problem? Fresh flowers don't stay fresh for long especially if you don't take care of them well. Not all of us are florists and gardeners, but here are some surefire ways to make flower arrangements you receive last a little longer:

- If you receive flowers that aren't in water, act as quick as you can. Drench them in water, or preferably in floral foam or flower food solution. These can be provided by your florist.

- If the floral foam solution becomes cloudy, replace it all. Same goes for those who are using plain water; replacing it daily with fresh water is a must.

- If flower food is unavailable, you can make your own makeshift flower freshener. Simply mix a teaspoon of bleach, a tablespoon of sugar, and a gallon of water. Mix well and you have flower food. Some gardening experts even say you can pour a 12-ounce can of non-diet Sprite or 7-Up in half a gallon of water The soda's acidity will slow bacteria growth in the water, while the sugar will "feed" the plant.

- Re-cut stems using a cutting tool that will not crush the stems like a sharp knife, pruning shears, or even a good pair of scissors. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle, and do this underwater. This allows the stems to draw in water instead of air and the increased surface area from the 45-degree cut allows for improved water/solution absorption.

- Some flowers actually last longer than others in the arrangement. Once they begin to wilt, remove them from the vase.

- Get rid of leaves that will be under the waterline of the vase, because leaves in water tend to promote bacterial growth.

- Remember to place your flower arrangement in a cool, dry spot, away from heat. About 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit is the recommended temperature for flowers, away from heating or cooling vents, directly under ceiling fans, on top of televisions or radiators, and away from direct sunlight, to avoid premature dehydration and wilting.

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