The floral departments of our local grocery stores are all decked out for Valentine’s Day. While shelves are overflowing with gift ideas for that special someone, the real focus is on the flowers. Dozens of samples of gorgeous mixed bouquets are sitting in coolers nudging shoppers to get their orders placed before it’s too late.
I have to admit that more than once in the past few weeks, I’ve stood in front of the display and drooled, longing to grab a bouquet and take it home with me; I miss fresh from the garden flowers during the long Midwest winters. I always stop myself from buying one though. Store bought flowers, for me, just don’t last long enough to justify the expense. At least that’s what I thought until I had a chat with the florist at my favorite store. She clued me in on some industry tips.
The first thing she told me was so simple and so obvious I was embarrassed that I hadn't consciously thought about it before. Not all cut flowers last the same amount of time. So, if longevity is important, avoid arrangements with a majority of short-lived blooms.
She also emphasized the importance of cleanliness. To put it bluntly, bacteria kill flowers. A build-up of harmful bacteria in the flowers’ water can cause a blockage in the stems that prevent the flowers from taking up the water they need to stay fresh. Some types of bacteria appear naturally over time, but others can come from dirt particles on stems, in the vase or on the tools or hands of the designer. Immersed foliage is also a source of bacteria. Any foliage that would sit below the top of the water level should be stripped from the flower’s stem.
Along with that advice, to keep arrangements looking fresh, she recommended using spotlessly clean vases and changing water every few days. Using a fresh flower food packet that has some sugar, acid and a preservative helps to both feed the blossoms and protect them from bacteria. Flowers that have been in water for several days can also benefit from a trim. Use clean, sharp clippers to remove the bottom of stems. Clip at a 45 degree angle.
Where the flowers are placed in your home also makes a difference in how long they live. Some want to be in a cool, shaded environment, while others prefer a warmer, sunnier space.
Since each type of cut flower has its own preferences, we’ve included a printable powerpoint that describes eight flowers popular for Valentine’s Day gifting.
Click here to find your perfect bouquet.
