Sunday, 17 January 2010

Some Tips To Make Your Bouquets Last Longer

By Mark Silva

Flowers are really popular to send to loved ones on special occasions such as Valentines Day, Mother's Day, weddings, and anniversaries. Even offices and homes use them for decorations to make the place livelier and less plain. These gifts of nature smell and look amazing, which makes them so great. They have unique shapes, bright colors, and they have the most wonderful smells only nature can give.

The only problem is that flowers tend to wilt prematurely if you don't take care of them well. Not all of us are florists and gardeners, here are some ways to extend the life of your bouquets:

- If you receive flowers that aren't in water, act as fast as you can. Drench them in water, or preferably in floral foam or flower food solution. These can be purchased from 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. Mix well and you have flower food. Some gardening experts even say you can pour a 12-ounce can of non-diet Sprite or 7-Up in half a gallon of water The soda's acidity 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 like a sharp knife, pruning shears, or even a good pair of scissors. 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.

- Some flowers will last longer than others in the bouquet. Once they begin to wilt, remove them from the vase.

- Get rid of leaves that will be below the vase's waterline, because leaves in water tend to promote bacterial growth.

- 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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