When you buy (or receive) a beautiful bouquet, you want it to last as long as possible. This adds not only some beauty to your living space but freshness as well. The only problem with cut plants is that they have a limited lifespan. It is, however, possible to extend it with proper maintenance and care for less wilting and more flourishing, even in the summer heat. Here’s a step-by-step guide to caring for them, according to the Food Lover’s Market Flower Specialist, Elmarie van den Berg.
Step #1
The first thing to do when you buy or receive a bouquet is to remove and discard all the packaging. This will make sure that your flowers get enough air and prevent them from dying quickly. Plus, it looks better!
Step #2
Next, you want to remove all the leaves until about halfway up the stems. This will keep your water cleaner and prevent it from going green while helping the flowers absorb water from the vase more easily.
Step #3
Using pruning shears or strong kitchen scissors, cut the stems at the bottom so they are at an angle. This increases the surface area so that they can absorb more water and stay fresher for longer.
Step #4
Add the sachet of floral food that comes with your bouquet to the water in your vase. It contains a blend of ingredients that will help your flowers look better for longer than they would with water alone.
Step #5
Every second day, toss out the old water and refill the vase with fresh water. You should also cut the stems again to ensure they continue to absorb the optimal amount of H2O for long-lasting freshness.
Step #6
During the hot summer months, your bouquet can become wilted more quickly. Prevent this by adding some ice cubes to the water daily to keep the water a temperature that will keep your flowers happy!
Do you want to fill your home with, or give a gift of, floral bouquets? Click here to find your nearest Food Lover’s Market where you can get fresh and fragrant bunches.
