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Flowers & Plants
2013-02-01 08:28:21
How do I keep cut flowers fresher longer?
A-There are a number of factors that affect the life of cut flowers such as when they were cut and at what stage. Other factors include how the stems were cut, the condition of the cut, and the condition of the water.
First, let's address how to cut flowers. If you are getting flowers from a florist, the stems should already be cut properly when you get them. However, if you want to prolong their freshness and beauty or want to use flowers from your garden, it helps to know proper cutting procedures.
It is best to cut flowers with a sharp, un-serrated knife. Always cut on a slant as it exposes more stem surface area. This is simple, but very important.
Next, you will want to remove any leaves that would be submerged in the vase. This will help keep the water clean.
The water, of course, is the next important factor. Cut flowers have a continuous need for water so keeping the water in top shape is the best way to prolong their beauty. Bacteria starts to grow within 3 hours and immediately starts to plug the straw-like stem structure, preventing proper water absorption. This will cause flowers to fade, wilt, and weaken. To keep the water in good condition, follow these steps:
• Change the water every three days. Do not just top off the water.
• Use the flower preservative packet. It contains a biocide (to kill bacteria), and acidifier, and sugar.
Finally, you might be wondering about other water additives and if they really work. While the floral preservative provided by the florist works best as it was designed to do the job, there are other solutions that work in the same way with various degrees of success. Here are a few of the most common:
• Add one part lemon-lime soda (not diet) to 3 parts water. Then to each quart of this solution, add 1/4 teaspoon bleach. Thereafter, add 1/4 teaspoon bleach after each 4 days of use.
• To 1 quart water add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon bleach.
• Add 2 ounces Listerine mouthwash per gallon of water. Listerine contains sucrose (food) and a bactericide. Listerine is acidic and is said to help water move up the cut stem.
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