If you have been bitten by the flower bug and you want to try keeping cut flowers for yourself in your home or workplace, then you must have a bunch of questions you need answers to.
Here is a list of questions that are commonly asked about caring for flowers:
How do I care for my flowers?
Undoubtedly one of the most common questions newbies ask is how to take care of cut flowers. Ideally you would want to keep the water in your vase clean and never stagnant. Most change their water every two days to help maintain freshness. Every time you do this, cut the stem in an angle to help it absorb water better.
As for temperature, you should keep your vase in a cool dry place. You want your cut flowers to be in an environment that’s not too hot, cold, or humid!
Photo by Alex Seinet on Unsplash
Different flowers for different occasions – is there such a thing?
Nowadays, it doesn’t really matter anymore what type of flowers you send to someone. Gone are the days where occasions dictate what type and colour of flower you should be sending. For example, people of yesteryears would send pink flowers for the birth of a baby girl (and blue if it’s a boy); green and white flowers signify loss, and brightly coloured flowers means that someone is celebrating – may it be a birthday or perhaps a promotion at work.
Nowadays it’s the thought that counts and you are free to send any type of flower to your loved ones!
My flowers died – what happened?
There are many reasons why your cut flowers might have died prematurely. Did you do any of these things?
- Did you leave your flowers outdoors?
- Did you leave your flowers near a heating vent or air conditioner?
- Did you change the water regularly?
- Did you cut the stem at an angle?
- Did you take the flowers out of their foam or wet tissue before placing them in a vase?
Caring for cut flowers isn’t the same as taking care of live, potted plants but they still require a deal of attention and care. If you take care of them properly they will surely last longer!
Can a woman give a man flowers?
No one is limiting you from buying flowers for your male friend or lover. They deserve some love too! In fact in a survey men have shown interest in receiving flowers – rather than being givers – and it’s something they wish to experience at least once in their lives!
Is it ok to dry out my flowers?
Of course, it can be a fun activity to do! Do bear in mind that not all flowers are great for drying so have fun trying out which ones do well and which ones don’t!
Some of the most commonly used flowers for drying include:
- Roses
- Paper Daisy
- Baby’s Breath
- Misty
- Statice
- Ferns
- Eucalyptus
There are many different types of flowers that can be preserved. Once you’ve seen them fully bloomed, take them out of the water and hang them upside down. This will help keep the colour and shape as they dry for a few weeks.
Why is it when I buy flowers, the buds are closed?
Your favourite florist should be giving you flowers that are yet to bloom because this means you have more time to enjoy your cut flowers. You get to enjoy it as it goes through its different stages of blooming.
Photo by Amber Turner on Unsplash
How long do cut flowers last?
Not all flowers are the same and generally speaking cut flowers will last for 5-7 days. However, you can take it up a notch and if they’re cared for properly they may even last for weeks! Preserve them afterwards and you can enjoy your flowers for much longer.
Are there flowers that are ok with people for allergies?
If you have allergies it’s best to avoid flowers with pollen and strong scents. If you have allergies, let your local florist know before buying and they’ll be able to suggest which ones you can be taking home with you.
Cover photo by Logan Nolin on Unsplash
