Fresh flowers are a real delight for the eyes and the nose. Their presence in our environment can brighten our mood and bring a touch of nature to our daily lives. However, it is important to know how to take care of these delicate beauties to fully enjoy them. Here are some tips to take care of your fresh flowers in the best possible way.

Preparation of fresh flowers

Before arranging your fresh flowers in a vase, it is important to take some preliminary steps to ensure their longevity. Here's what you need to do:

• Fill a bucket with clean, lukewarm water.
• Add a special nutrient solution for cut flowers.
• Remove any lower leaves that may be soaking in water.

Cut the stems properly

Proper trimming of stems is essential to allow flowers to absorb water and nutrients optimally. Here's how:

• Use a sharp knife or clean scissors.
• Cut the stems at an angle, at about 45 degrees.
• Remove wilted or damaged stems.

Choose the right vase

Choosing the right vase is crucial to maintaining the freshness of your flowers. Here are some points to consider:

• Opt for a clean glass vase.
• Make sure the vase is large enough to accommodate the flowers and allow for good air circulation.
• Avoid metal vases, as they can affect water quality.

Water and essential nutrients

As you would expect, water is a vital element for the longevity of flowers. Here are some tips for optimal hydration:

• Use lukewarm water, since it is more easily absorbed by the flowers.
• Change the water every two days to prevent the proliferation of bacteria.
• Add a cut flower nutrient solution to the water to prolong their life.

Strategic investment

Where you place your fresh flowers can impact their lifespan. Here are some recommendations:

• Keep them away from drafts and heat sources.
• Place them in a well-lit room, but avoid direct sunlight.
• Keep them away from fruit, as they produce ethylene, which speeds up the wilting process.

Avoid heat and direct sunlight

Fresh flowers are sensitive to heat and direct sunlight. Here's how to protect them:

• Avoid placing them near radiators, hot appliances or windows exposed to the sun.
• High temperatures can cause premature wilting.

Maintain fresh flowers daily

To maintain the freshness of your flowers, here are some tasks to perform daily:

• Remove wilted or damaged leaves.
• Check the water level in the vase and add more if necessary.
• Lightly mist the flowers with clean water to keep them hydrated.

Remove faded flowers

Wilted flowers can affect the beauty and health of other flowers. Here's how to remove them properly:

• Cut off faded flowers near the base to encourage the growth of new flowers.
• Also remove yellowed or wilted leaves.

Fresh flowers and fruits

When placing fresh flowers near fruit, it is important to take a few precautions:

• Fruits produce ethylene, a gas that speeds up the process of withering flowers. Avoid placing them side by side.
• If you want to use fruit in your floral arrangement, be sure to separate it from the flowers by using different containers.

Common mistakes to avoid

When caring for your fresh flowers, avoid the following mistakes:

• Avoid using cold water, as this can cause heat shock to the flowers.
• Do not neglect the regular cleaning of the vase to eliminate bacteria and residues.

Conclusion

Caring for your fresh flowers is essential to prolonging their beauty and freshness. By following these tips, you can enjoy your flowers for longer and add a touch of nature and joy to your surroundings.

FAQs

1. How can I prevent my fresh flowers from fading quickly?

   • By changing the water regularly, cutting the stems properly and placing them in a cool place.

2. How long can my fresh flowers last with proper care?

   • With proper care, some flowers can last up to two weeks.

3. Should I use floral preservatives for my fresh flowers?

   • Floral preservatives can help prolong the life of your flowers, but they are not essential.

4. Can I mix different flowers in the same vase?

   • Yes, you can mix different flowers in the same vase, but be sure to choose flowers with similar water and nutrient needs.

5. What to do with faded flowers?

   • Cut off faded flowers near the base and remove yellowed leaves to encourage the growth of new flowers.