Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Some 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 comfortable and lively when flowers decorate the place. These gifts of nature look and smell amazing, which makes them so great. They have bright colors, unique shapes, and they have the most wonderful smells only nature can provide.

The only problem? Fresh flowers don't stay fresh for long especially if you don't take care of them properly. Not everyone are florists and gardeners, here are some ways to extend the life of your bouquets:

- If possible, use flower food or floral foam in your vases instead of just 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 immediately.

- 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. Mix well and you have flower food. If these ingredients are unavailable, try mixing a 12-ounce can of clear, non-diet soda (like Sprite or 7-Up) with half a gallon of water. The acid in the soda will slow down growth of bacteria in the water, while the sugar will feed the flowers.

- Re-cut stems using a cutting tool that will not crush the stems. A sharp knife, pruning shears, or even a good pair of scissors can do. 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 can last longer than others in the bouquet. Once they wilt, take them out of the arrangement.

- Remove any leaves that go below the waterline of the vase, because leaves in water tend to promote bacterial growth.

- Keep flowers in a cool, dry spot, in approximately 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. It is recommended to keep them away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, directly under ceiling fans, or on top of televisions or radiators. Failing to do so will cause your flowers to dehydrate and make them wilt prematurely.

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