Flowers - whether you’re on the receiving end or the giving end - bring such joy and are yet one of life’s most simple pleasures.Perth florist, Beautiful Bunches’ Sarah McMillan has some ideas on how to get the best from your flowers.
“Stems need to be trimmed often as they can seal up, which prevents the flow of water and nutrients. Stems of flowers should be cut 1 - 2cms shorter when putting them in a vase.The basic guideline is to cut soft stems straight, and woody stems, such as hydrangeas and roses, at an angle. These woody stems should then be smashed with the back of the secateurs.Tulips need to be cut often as they are the only flower that continues to grow after cutting.”
Beautiful Bunches florist in Perth includes a packet of water enhancer with all its deliveries which will prolong the life of the flowers. A tiny amount of bleach added to the water should have the same effect.Any leaf growth that is under the water should be cut off to prevent them from rotting.This will also help prevent algae from forming which makes water cloudy and can leave an unpleasant smell.The water should be refreshed every few days.
For flowers to last longer, they should be placed away from direct sunlight and heaters.
Sarah McMillan of Perth florist, Beautiful Bunches added : “There are some basic rules for different flowers. The stems of gerberas for example, should be trimmed one centimeter and then placed in seven centimeters of boiling water for about 10 seconds. You will notice air bubbles coming out of the stems. Then the flowers should be placed in cool water to recover.
“The same applies to droopy roses, which should never happen in the case of a delivery from Beautiful Bunches ! If roses are drooping, cut at least 3 centimetres off the stems and place in boiling water for 30 seconds. Then place in cool water to refresh.
“If you’re lucky enough to receive fresh roses, place them in iced water for ten minutes, then put into boiling water for 30 seconds to scald the stems.One should then snip the stems at an angle.
If flowers have milky stems that ooze sap, it is advisable to singe the stems with a match. Hairy stemmed flowers, eg. the gerbera daisy, don’t like deep water.They will need only about 7 centimetres of water.
Should you be lucky enough to receive a flower arrangement from your Perth florist and are arranging it yourself using a block of oasis, follow these simple guidelines.The dry oasis should be placed in a tub or bucket of water. Let it absorb water and sink on its own.By submerging the oasis, you run the risk of creating an airblock in the middle of it which will prevent flowers from getting any water.
Beautiful Bunches has been a popular florist in Perth for many years and has earned a reputation for flower deliveries that are professionally arranged and supported by personal service and attention to detail.Should you be the lucky recipient of a special flower arrangement, take note of tips and your blooms will last longer that you think.