Tip of the Week

That's right!  We are starting a new feature on our blog known as the tip of the week.  Once a week we'll be posting various tips from plant care to wedding ideas and everything in-between. 

This week's tips are on how to make your beautiful flowers last longer!  There are so many things you can do, but here are a few suggestions.

1. Make sure you have a clean vase.  Sometimes you receive flowers in a wrap or a box and it's up to you to arrange them.  Starting with a clean vase will help prevent bacteria which can cause early wilting.  If your flowers already come in a vase it's a good idea to occasionally take the flowers out and clean the vase.

2. Flowers receive their water supply through the end of their stems.  Over time the bottom of the stem starts to seal itself up.  Every couple of days take your flowers out of the water and give them a fresh trim.  At an angle is best.  Make sure you change the water when you're recutting the flowers so they get a fresh drink of nice clean water.

3. In most cases the flowers you receive from your local florist come with floral food already in the water, but you will need to change that water every couple of days.  Since most people don't have a ready supply of floral food at their fingertips here are a couple homemade alternatives you can use.  Sugar or soda are two good options.  Also adding a small amount of bleach can also help prevent bacteria, just make sure you don't use too much.

4. Keep your floral arrangement away from extreme conditions.  Placing your flowers in a position where heat or cold is blowing directly on them can cause rapid wilting.  Taking the time to place them in a cooler environment while you're sleeping can also extend their life.  If your refrigerater isn't big enough to hold your flowers try a basement or any other cooler room in your house.  Just make sure it isn't below 40 degrees so your flowers don't freeze.

5. Another way to enjoy your flowers longer is to request flowers that aren't bloomed yet.  Lilies are a great example of a flower that will keep on giving as each bud eventually opens.  Make sure you remove any dead flowers from the arrangement as soon as possible because they emit a gas that will cause your other flowers to wilt faster. 

We hope these tips help to improve the life of your flowers and look forward to seeing you in soon!