Fresh Flower Care
Caroll Alvarado
| 22-03-2024
· Plant Team
Facing the pressures of reality can often feel elusive and overwhelming. Fresh flowers provide a warm sanctuary in which we can find solace.
However, the life of fresh flowers is fleeting, and when we acquire them, we hope they will last longer.
We need to provide proper care based on the growth characteristics of the flowers. During the nurturing process, careful observation is essential to ensure the flowers can absorb water properly, minimize water loss, and utilize care techniques to prolong their lifespan.
Fresh flowers typically refer to cut flowers, which are plant materials such as stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits cut from fresh plants for their aesthetic value. They are commonly used in floral arrangements in flower shops and for decorative purposes in homes.

To prolong the care of fresh flowers, the following points are essential:

1. Ensure freshly purchased flowers are indeed fresh.

Freshness is crucial! Each flower has its lifecycle, and time is consumed during harvesting and transportation. For example, the lifespan of roses in water is approximately ten days, but transportation may take 3 to 5 days. Therefore, it's essential to choose healthy, fresh flowers. Only with fresh flowers can we effectively utilize techniques to extend their lifespan.

2. Understand the basics of flower materials.

Each flower material has different growth characteristics, requiring different handling methods.
For instance, carnations, roses, lilies, etc., should have their stems trimmed short and placed in deep water to hydrate when first acquired. Unique materials like water lilies require a different approach, such as cutting the stems flat and putting them in tap water until air bubbles stop, then transferring them to a vase filled with water.

3. Different flowers require different pruning methods.

After hydrating the flowers, each stem needs to be individually pruned. Any damaged or moldy flower buds or leaves should be removed. Generally, only 2-3 leaves should be left on each stem. The pruning method for the stem base varies depending on the flower material.

4. Select the right vase and maintain the correct water level.

Please choose an appropriate vase, wash it with 84 disinfectants and water, and use distilled water for better absorption. Let tap water sit for a day to allow chlorine to evaporate before use. The water level should be adjusted based on the type of flower material.

5. Proper arrangement of flower materials.

When arranging the flowers in the vase, ensure they are not overcrowded to allow airflow. Flowers should be placed in a cool, ventilated area away from fruits to inhibit ethylene production and slow metabolism.

6. Be observant and change the water regularly.

Regularly observe the flowers for wilting or rotting, and promptly remove any affected parts to prevent bacterial spread. If the water becomes cloudy or develops an odor, change it immediately. After changing the water, rinse the vase and trim the stems before placing the flowers back.
To ensure fresh flowers bloom beautifully and last longer, we must analyze the growth characteristics of the flower materials and the care environment. With the correct methods, we can naturally prolong their lifespan.