Introduction
Flowers bring a touch of beauty and freshness to our daily lives. Whether they are given as gifts, purchased to brighten up our home or grown with love in our garden, it is essential to take care of them to see them flourish as long as possible. In this article, we give you practical advice for pampering your flowers and extending their lifespan.
1. Choose the right location
After receiving or purchasing your flowers, it is essential to place them in an appropriate location. Opt for a clean vase, filled with lukewarm water. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, excessive heat or drafts. Flowers generally prefer a cool, shady location to better maintain their freshness and vibrancy.
2. Cut the stems
Before putting your flowers in water, take the time to cut about 2 centimeters from their stems at an angle. Use a sharp knife or clean scissors to avoid crushing the stems. This step will make it easier for the flowers to absorb water, allowing them to stay hydrated longer.
3. Change the water regularly
To prevent the proliferation of bacteria, it is recommended to change the water in the vase every two days. When you change the water, take the opportunity to clean the vase to eliminate residue and any bacteria. It is best to use lukewarm or room temperature water to avoid shocking the flowers with water that is too cold.
4. Use floral preservatives
To extend the life of your flowers, you can use floral preservatives. These specially designed products contain nutrients and bacterial growth inhibitors. Add a small amount to the vase water to nourish your flowers and delay their wilting. You can obtain these preservatives in specialist flower stores or ask your trusted florist for advice.
5. Avoid fruit nearby
Fruits naturally produce ethylene, a gas that accelerates the ripening and aging process of flowers. So be sure to keep your flowers away from the fruit to prevent them from wilting prematurely. If you want to keep your flowers in the same room as fruit, place them in airtight containers to limit exposure to ethylene.
6. Remove spent flowers
To encourage the production of new flowers, consider regularly removing spent flowers from your bouquet or plants. Not only is this aesthetically pleasing, but it also helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria that could affect the other flowers in the vase. Remember to also cut off the stems of flowers that are beginning to wilt to prevent them from absorbing water through the damaged stems.
7. Avoid drafts
Drafts can quickly dry out your flowers and speed up their wilting. Therefore, avoid placing your floral arrangements near open windows or doors where they may be exposed to drafts. Additionally, keep your flowers away from heat sources such as radiators or electrical appliances, as these can also contribute to flowers drying out.
Conclusion
Taking care of your flowers is a simple gesture that allows you to enjoy their beauty and shine for longer. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your flowers and get the most out of them. Choose a good location, cut the stems, change the water regularly, use floral preservatives, keep fruit away, remove spent flowers and avoid drafts. Enjoy the presence of these floral wonders in your interior and garden, while providing an environment conducive to their flourishing.