Flowers have long been a symbol of love, appreciation, and beauty, making them one of the most cherished and popular gifts to give and receive on various occasions. Whether it’s a bouquet from a loved one, a birthday surprise, or a token of gratitude, receiving fresh flowers brings joy to our lives. However, to fully appreciate and make the most of these beautiful blooms, it is essential to know how to care for and preserve them. In this guide, we will explore what to do with flowers when you get them, including proper care, arranging tips, and preservation techniques to extend their life and sentimental value.
1. Unpacking and Inspection
Upon receiving flowers, the first step is to carefully unpack them. If they are delivered in a box, gently remove the wrapping to avoid damaging the delicate petals and stems. Inspect the flowers for any signs of damage, such as wilting, broken stems, or bruised petals. If you notice any issues, contact the sender or the florist to resolve the matter promptly.
2. Trim the Stems
Before arranging your flowers in a vase, it is essential to trim the stems. Use sharp, clean scissors or floral shears to cut the stems at a 45-degree angle. This angled cut increases the surface area, allowing the flowers to absorb more water. Remove any foliage that would be submerged in water, as it can promote bacterial growth and reduce the vase life of the flowers.
3. Choose the Right Vase
Selecting an appropriate vase is crucial to support and display your flowers beautifully. The vase should be clean, tall enough to support the stems, and have a suitable width to allow the bouquet to spread out naturally. Glass vases are preferred as they enable you to appreciate the entire arrangement and monitor the water level easily.
4. Water and Nourishment
Fill the vase with clean, lukewarm water and add flower food or a homemade preservative solution. Flower food contains nutrients and antibacterial agents that can extend the life of your flowers. If you don’t have flower food, you can create a DIY solution by mixing a teaspoon of sugar, a teaspoon of white vinegar, and a few drops of bleach in a quart of water. Change the water and replenish the solution every two days to keep the flowers fresh.
5. Placement and Temperature
Place your flowers in a location away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators or heating vents. Sunlight and excessive heat can cause the flowers to wilt quickly. Additionally, keep the flowers away from drafts, as they can dehydrate the blooms. Ideal room temperature, around 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 22 degrees Celsius), is best for prolonging the life of your flowers.
6. Regular Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are essential for maximizing the lifespan of your floral arrangement. Here are some tips for maintaining your flowers:
Change Water Regularly: As mentioned earlier, change the water every two days, replenishing it with the preservative solution. This prevents bacterial growth and helps your flowers stay fresh longer.
Remove Wilting Flowers: As flowers age, some may wilt or begin to fade. Removing these flowers from the arrangement will promote the longevity of the remaining blooms.
Re-cut the Stems: Every few days, re-cut the stems at a 45-degree angle to ensure optimal water absorption.
Prune Foliage: Trim any foliage that starts to discolor or decay, as it can affect the water quality and hasten the deterioration of the flowers.
Mist the Flowers: In dry climates or heated rooms, misting the flowers with a fine spray of water can help maintain their freshness.
7. Flower Arranging Tips
Arranging flowers is an art form that allows you to express your creativity and enhance the beauty of the blooms. Here are some tips to create a stunning flower arrangement:
Balance and Proportion: Achieve visual balance by distributing flowers evenly and considering the size and shape of the blooms. Balance the height and volume of the arrangement to avoid a lopsided look.
Color Palette: Choose a harmonious color palette that complements the flowers and the room’s decor. Consider the mood you want to convey with the arrangement and select colors accordingly.
Texture and Form: Mix different flower varieties with varied textures and forms to add depth and interest to the arrangement.
Focus on Focal Point: Select one or two standout flowers as focal points and build the arrangement around them.
Use Greens Wisely: Greenery, such as eucalyptus or ferns, acts as a natural filler and provides a lush backdrop to showcase the flowers.
8. Drying and Preserving Flowers
Preserving flowers allows you to cherish their beauty long after they have dried. Dried flowers can be used in various crafts, decorations, or even displayed in frames. Here are some popular methods for preserving flowers:
Air Drying: This traditional method involves hanging flowers upside down in a warm, dry, and dark space. The process can take several weeks, depending on the flower type and size.
Pressing: Pressing flowers between heavy books or using a flower press allows them to dry flat and retain their natural colors.
Silica Gel: Using silica gel is a quicker way to dry flowers while maintaining their shape and color. Silica gel can be found in craft stores, and flowers are buried in the gel for a few days until fully dried.
Microwave Drying: Microwave drying is a faster alternative to air drying, but it requires careful monitoring to prevent overheating and damaging the flowers.
Conclusion
Receiving a bouquet of fresh flowers is a delightful experience that brings joy and beauty into our lives. By following these tips on what to do with flowers when you get them, caring for and arranging your floral gifts will become a rewarding and enjoyable process. Remember to inspect the flowers upon receipt, trim the stems, choose the right vase, and provide adequate water and nourishment. Regular care and maintenance, along with creative arranging, will ensure your flowers stay vibrant and fresh for as long as possible. Lastly, consider preserving the beauty of your flowers through various drying techniques, allowing you to cherish their sentimental value for years to come.
