Saturday, January 23, 2010

Tips That Can Make Your Bouquets Last

By Claire Silva

Flowers are one of the meaningful gifts and liveliest decorations for nearly any occasion, all year 'round. 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 smell and look amazing. They have unique shapes, bright colours, and they have the most wonderful scents only nature can provide.

The downside is that flowers tend to wilt prematurely if you don't take care of them right. Not everyone are florists and gardeners, but here are some surefire ways to make bouquets you receive last a little longer:

- Whenever possible, use flower food or floral foam in your vases instead of plain water. These can be bought from and/or provided by your florist.

- Remember to always use a clean vase with enough space, and use clear water every day. Once the flower food solution or water becomes cloudy, replace it all right away.

- If flower food is unavailable, you can make your own makeshift flower freshener. Just add a teaspoon of bleach, a tablespoon of sugar, and a gallon of water. Viola! Your homemade flower food. If these ingredients are unavailable, try mixing a 12-ounce can of clear, non-diet soda (like 7-Up or Sprite) with half a gallon of water. The soda's acidity will slow bacteria growth in the water, while the sugar will feed the flowers.

- Re-cut your flower stems at a 45-degree angle using a sharp cutting tool, such as a sharp knife, good pair of scissors, or pruning shears. Cut the stems underwater to allow more water absorption instead of air. A 45-degree angle stem cut can also improve liquid absorption of the plants.

- Generally, some flowers last longer than others. Once they begin to wilt, remove them from the vase.

- Get rid of leaves that will be below the waterline of the vase, to lessen bacteria growth in the water.

- 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. Failing to do so will cause your flowers to dehydrate and make them wilt prematurely.

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