Everything You Need to Know About Flower Care

After receiving a gorgeous bouquet, some people become intimidated with the thoughts about how to ensure the arrangement lasts long, or simply how they are going to keep it alive. At Shalimar Flower Shop, we always use the freshest blooms in season and we are here to provide you with top tips to ensure the longevity of your flowers lives.

Tip #1 ~ Trim Your Stems

Before putting your newly purchased flowers in a vase, ensure that you cut about half an inch off of the bottom of the stem(s) at an angle, with sharp scissors. This helps the reveal fresh tissue of the flowers which will help them absorb more water.

Tip #2 ~ Change the Water Every Few Days

As mentioned above, flowers soak up a large amount of water. Even if there is still water in the vase, it is still best to change it as bacteria is known to build up in the water and attack the stems, making them perish more quickly. This bacteria also can block the water transporting tissues in the stems, lessening water intake.

Tip #3 ~ Stay Away from Bright Light & Heat

Cut flowers are very different from potted plants. While plants thrive off warmth and direct sunlight, freshly cut flowers are at their peak, and will survive much better in a cool place (~18 to 22 degrees celsius).

Tip #4 ~ Avoid Placing Flowers near Fruit

Not many people know that fruit give off an ethylene gas that can be devastating for your flowers, causing them to age at a quicker rate. Bananas, apples are typically bad for this, causing your flowers to droop and drop their petals.

Tip #5 ~ Don't Forget the Flower Food

You should receive flower food to nourish your new flowers. Flower food does not only feed your flowers, but it also can help deter harmful bacteria. Fun fact: You can make your own flower food with 1 tsp of sugar, 1 tsp of bleach, 2 tsp of lemon juice and 1 quart of lukewarm water.

With these tips and tricks, you are sure to have long lasting, stunning flowers in your house for a long time. Share your tips and tricks down below!

For more specific flower care tips regarding certain types of flowers, click here.