| How can I make my flowers last longer? | | | | your flowers are arranged in water Keep the |
| Certain varieties of cut flowers last longer than | | | | vase filled with water containing floral food |
| others. Carnations, for example, can remain | | | | provided by your florist. Be sure to follow the |
| vibrant for long periods. Roses have a shorter | | | | directions on the package. |
| vase life, but are prized for their special and | | | | If the solution becomes cloudy, replace it entirely. |
| delicate beauty. When buying flowers, be sure to | | | | If possible, recut the stems by removing one to |
| ask your florist how long you should expect your | | | | two inches with a sharp knife. |
| arrangement to last. Whatever variety you | | | | Remove leaves that will be below the waterline. |
| choose, a little TLC will go a long way to keep | | | | Leaves in water will promote bacterial growth |
| your blooms looking fresh longer. Here are a few | | | | that can harm the flowers. When your |
| handy tips that can help add days to their beauty! | | | | flowers have woody stems and branches (such |
| | | | | as Quince, Forsythia, or Lilac) Cut the stem |
| Essentials for your flowers | | | | with sharp pruning shears. Place in warm water |
| Keep them in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees | | | | containing fresh floral food to promote flower |
| Fahrenheit; 18 to 22 degrees Celsius), away from | | | | opening. |
| direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, direct | | | | What is floral food and why use it? |
| drafts from a ceiling fan, and the tops of | | | | Floral food is a combination of additives that help |
| televisions or radiators. (Appliances like televisions | | | | to nourish the flowers and discourage bacteria |
| give off heat, causing flowers to dehydrate.) | | | | from growing in the water. It is one of the |
| When your flowers arrive in wet foam | | | | best—and easiest—ways to extend the life |
| Keep the floral foam soaked in water containing | | | | of your flowers. It is very important to follow the |
| floral food provided by your florist. Be sure to | | | | directions on the package correctly. Improperly |
| follow the directions on the package. When | | | | mixed floral food can do more harm than good. |