Two of the top questions Americans ask when purchasing flowers
are "How do I take care of them?" and "How long will they last?
From a single bud, to a small bunch to an abundant arrangement, just a little
extra care can make a big difference. Most floral arrangements last from 4 to
7 days, depending on the types of flowers used and the type of care they receive.
Here's some specific tips to keep your flowers looking beautiful:
For floral arrangements... Keep the vase filled or floral foam
soaked with water containing a flower food. If the flower food solution becomes
cloudy, replace it entirely. If possible, recut stems by removing one to two inches
with a sharp knife. Use warm water when adding water to the vase or refilling
it.
Keep flowers in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), away
from direct sunlight. Avoid heating or cooling vents, areas directly under ceiling
fans, or on top of televisions or radiators. Appliances such as televisions and
radiators give off heat, causing the flowers to quickly dehydrate.
For boxed flowers or loose wrapped bunches... If you can't get
your flowers into a water and flower food solution right away, keep them in a
cool place. Fill a clean, deep vase with water and add the flower food, following
the directions on the package.
For all arrangements... Remove any leaves that will be below
the waterline. Leaves in the water will promote bacterial growth, causing the
flowers to wilt quickly.
Recut stems with a sharp knife. Do this underwater, in warm
water. This allows the stems to draw in water instead of air. Then place the flowers
in the vase solution you've prepared. When using woody stems and branches (such
as forsythia, quince or lilac), cut the stem with sharp pruning shears.
How to: Make your arrangement last longer.