The following guest post covers essential information about keeping flowers fresh for long or during transportation.
Flowers are beautiful, fragrance, and color in our world, but most have a very short life span. Thus, florists have a number of methods and information that assist in keeping flowers fresh and bright and prolonging their lives to the maximum extent possible. Whether they are making wedding bouquets and bridal bouquets, arrangements for an event, or deliveries, florists do the following to keep flowers looking fresh and crisp.
- Choosing Fresh Flowers
Flowers remain fresh and vibrant throughout, so we must start with the right flowers. Fresh flowers are bought from growers in the region where the florist business is situated or from wholesale flower merchants; before buying flowers, the latter examines each stem. Being healthy, fresh flowers have firm petals and strong stems, and the color has not faded. Florists look for the presence of wilting, browning, or fading; this is a clear indication that flowers have already been aging.
- Proper Cutting Techniques
When Florist Leesburg VA receive fresh flowers, they immediately cut the stems to prevent air from entering the flower’s water supply. Such a cut is significant because it makes the surface area bigger to absorb water properly and because if the cut stem is flat on the bottom of the vase, it tends to block water access in certain plant species. In most cases, such as in floriculture, sharp knives or flower cutters enable near-perfect cutting without causing any regard to the stems. A good tip when preparing flowers is to have them cut underwater; this minimizes the amount of air that gets in the stems.
- Hydration and Water Quality
Once the flowers are cut, the next priority is hydration. Florists place flowers in clean water as soon as possible. Flowers can absorb water through their stems; hydration is key to keeping them fresh. Florists use water that’s been filtered or treated to ensure it’s free from chlorine and other chemicals that can harm the flowers. Some florists also add flower food or preservatives to the water. These packets contain ingredients that reduce bacterial growth, provide nutrients to the flowers, and lower the pH of the water, making it easier for flowers to absorb.
- Flower Food and Preservatives
Flower food is a mixture of sugars, biocides, and acidifiers that help extend the life of cut flowers. The sugars provide nutrients for the flowers, the biocides kill harmful bacteria, and the acidifiers lower the water’s pH, making it more accessible to the flowers. Florist Oakton Va often includes flower food in bouquets and arrangements to help customers maintain freshness after purchase. Additionally, florists may add homemade solutions like a mixture of sugar, lemon juice, and water or a small amount of bleach to help prevent bacterial growth.
- Temperature Control
Temperature plays a critical role in how long flowers stay fresh. Florists store their flowers in relaxed environments to slow down the aging process. Fresh flowers should be kept at temperatures ranging from 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C) in a cooler or fridge to prevent premature wilting. Too much heat can cause flowers to dehydrate, wilt, or bloom too quickly. Florists will also ensure that flowers are not placed directly under bright lights or in sunny spots, which can promote wilting.
- Humidity Levels
Proper humidity levels are also essential for preserving the freshness of flowers. Florists often keep their flowers in areas with controlled humidity to prevent them from drying out. Flowers exposed to low humidity can lose moisture from their petals and leaves, causing them to wilt and lose their vibrancy. On the other hand, too much humidity can encourage mold and mildew growth, which can damage flowers. Therefore, florists aim for a balanced humidity level of around 60-70%.
- Regular Maintenance and Trimming
Florists regularly check the flowers they’ve arranged or displayed to ensure they remain in good condition. This includes removing any wilted petals, trimming any dead leaves, and replacing any murky water. Stems are typically recut every few days to allow for continued water absorption. Florists may also remove leaves that sit below the waterline in the vase to prevent them from rotting, which can lead to bacterial growth in the water.
- Avoiding Ethylene Gas Exposure
Ethylene gas is a natural plant hormone that accelerates the aging process in flowers and plants. Florists are aware of the flowers most sensitive to ethylene gas, such as carnations, lilies, and tulips, and take steps to ensure they are not exposed to it. For instance, they avoid storing flowers near ripening fruits, vegetables, or plants that emit ethylene gas. Florists will also ensure their storage areas are well-ventilated to prevent ethylene buildup.
- Special Care for Different Types of Flowers
Not all flowers are the same, and florists tailor their care methods based on the specific needs of each type. For example:
- Roses: Florists may frequently remove thorns and excess leaves and recut the stems to keep them hydrated.
- Tulips: These flowers continue to grow after being cut, so florists trim the stems regularly to maintain their shape.
- Orchids: These delicate flowers require careful temperature and humidity control. Florists may use special preservatives to provide extra hydration and stay vibrant.
- Using Floral Foam and Wires
Florists may use floral foam or wires for arrangements that need extra structure. Floral foam absorbs water and provides a stable base for stems, allowing flowers to stay hydrated longer. Wires are also used to reinforce stems and help delicate flowers maintain their shape. Florists use these techniques to ensure that even complex arrangements maintain their beauty and last longer.
- Flower Preservation Techniques
Florists may use flower preservation techniques such as drying or pressing for arrangements meant to last longer than typical cut flowers. Dried flowers are a popular option for long-term keepsakes, and florists may treat flowers with preservatives to prevent them from becoming brittle. Pressed flowers can be used in artwork, cards, or other items and are a beautiful way to preserve memories of an event or special occasion.
- Transport and Delivery Considerations
Florist Fairfax VA also takes care during the transportation and delivery of flowers to ensure they remain fresh. If flowers are being delivered, florists may use specially designed boxes or wrapping materials to protect them from the elements. In cases of long-distance delivery, florists may send flowers in refrigerated containers to keep them cool and fresh. These practices help ensure that the flowers purchased are enjoyed to their fullest, making every floral arrangement a lasting expression of beauty.
