CUTTING
FLOWERS
The best method for
cutting flowers is underwater. By doing so, it prevents air form getting into
the stem and stopping the flower from being able to soak up the water. If this
is not possible, the next best method is cutting the stems and immediately
placing them in a vase of water. In either method, cut the stems on an angle to
allow the largest possible area to soak up water. Strip any of the leaves that
are below the water line, as they will cause bacteria to grow, which in turn
will affect the life of the flowers.
LOCATIONS
Heat and light have a
major impact on the development of flowers. For example, if you are having a
party in a couple of days and want to keep the flowers fresh until then, place
them in a dark, cool place such as a refrigerator. This will slow the maturing
process. Or, if you are impatient and want the flowers to open quickly, place
them in warm water and in a warm location for a few hours. In any case, do not
place them in direct sunlight or near any heat sources. This will causes them to
wilt prematurely.
KEEPING
FRESH
To keep bouquets looking
fresh longer, re-cut the stems and fresh water daily. For arrangements, add
water daily to the container. Also, spray bouquets and arrangements daily with a
cool mist, more often in hot weather.
Flowers that have
prominent stamens, such as lilies will last longer if the stamen is removed. you
can remove the stamen by pinching the ends with your fingers or by cutting them
off with sharp scissors. This technique also prevents any falling stamens from
staining your furniture or table cloths.
ROSES
Sometimes roses do not
open, but the heads just bend over. To straighten them out again, give them a
fresh cut on an angle, under water preferably, and then lay the complete flower,
including stem, in a tub of water. Leave them there for about an hour or so and
then remove them and turn the flower upside down to drain any water out of the
head. Following this place them immediately in a vase of fresh water. By doing
this, the stems will soak up more water without having to fight the effects of
gravity.
ETHYLENE
GAS
Ethylene gas is an
odourless gas emitted by such things as garbage, exhaust fumes, fungi and even
ripening fruit. It accelerates the rate at which some flowers mature, which can
cause the flowers not to open, or drop the buds and can cause the leaves to
yellow. Roses, carnations, freesia and alstromeria are particularly susceptible
to ethylene gases. Try to keep the flowers away form sources of ethylene gas to
keep them fresher longer. Remember this when using fruit in a flower
arrangement. Removal of old wilted flowers from bouquets and arrangements will
help to preserve the remaining flowers and keep them looking nice longer.
