Date published
January 3, 2024
Welcome to flower care 101, where we delve deep into the fragrant world of flower arrangements and provide essential tips on how to keep various types of flowers fresh. Whether you’re an aspiring florist or simply love having fresh flowers in your home, this article has the quick tips and tricks you need to prolong the life of your blooms.
Creating stunning flower arrangements is both an art and a science. Here are some general tips to enhance the longevity of your floral displays:
Trim Stems Properly: For optimal water absorption, cut the stems of your bouquet at a 45-degree angle. You should aim to trim your flower stems every two to three days.
Water Smartly: Use room temperature water for most flowers, but opt for cooler water for bulb varieties like tulips. Whenever possible, use filtered water for the best results. And don’t forget to refresh the water every two to three days to prevent bacterial growth!
Strategic Placement: Avoid harsh conditions like direct sunlight or winter-time drafts to prolong the life of your flower arrangements.
Understanding the unique characteristics of different types of flowers is key to maintaining their freshness and beauty. From the delicate petals of roses to the bold blooms of sunflowers, each type requires specific care. Let’s explore some popular varieties:
A classic symbol of love, roses require careful trimming and frequent water changes, at least every two days. Use floral preservatives (that often come with your store-bought bouquets) to extend the freshness of your flowers.
Fragrant and elegant, lilies thrive in cooler, shaded areas. Keep them away from direct sunlight and remove their pollen stamens to prevent staining. And don’t forget—lilies are toxic to your house pets!
Exotic and alluring, orchids prefer humid environments and minimal watering. If you live in a dry climate like Calgary’s, keep your orchid in a space with a humidifier for the best results.
Carnations thrive when their stems are submerged in clean, cool water, changed every two days. Keep them in a cool environment away from direct sunlight to prolong their vibrant bloom.
Our florists have a few special tricks up their sleeve to ensure your flower arrangements stay fresh and vibrant for as long as possible. Try these out:
Use Flower Food: This can significantly extend the life of your blooms. You’ll find flower food in a sachet attached to your Calgary Co-op flower bouquets.
Watch for Ethylene Gas: Interesting and little known fact: keep your flowers away from ripening fruits, as the gas they emit can accelerate ageing!
By understanding the specific needs of different types of flowers and applying these arrangement and care techniques, you can significantly prolong the freshness and beauty of your floral displays. Whether it’s a bouquet of roses or a mixed arrangement of seasonal blooms, proper care will bring prolonged enjoyment and vibrancy to your space. So the next time you’re at your local Calgary Co-op, shop from our lush variety of flowers to add a little light to your home or to show a loved one you care!