WITH Mother’s Day taking place this Sunday, March 10, families are preparing to honour their mums with tokens of appreciation and, for many, a bouquet of flowers remains a cherished tradition.
Without proper care, cut flowers can quickly lose their vibrancy and wilt within days.
To help ensure everyone’s Mother’s Day blooms last longer, here are some valuable tips from Julian de Bosdari, CEO of UK plant nursery Ashridge, to keep flowers looking fresh and vibrant.
Long-lasting varieties like chrysanthemums, carnations, and orchids can survive for several weeks, allowing mums to enjoy their bouquet for an extended period but there are plenty of things to enable all flowers to bloom for longer.
Start with a clean vase – Always use a clean vase with a wide opening to prevent bacteria buildup. Avoid plastic vases as they are more porous and prone to harbouring bacteria. Glass or ceramic vases are easier to clean and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bouquet.
Trim flower stems at an angle – Cut half an inch off each stem at a 45-degree angle using a sharp knife or scissors. Diagonal cuts maximise water absorption, keeping flowers hydrated and vibrant. Trim stems every few days to allow flowers the best chance of absorbing water.
Remove foliage below the water line – Remove any leaves or petals submerged in vase water to prevent bacterial growth. Clearing foliage below the water line ensures proper hydration and prolongs the life of your bouquet.
Keep flowers away from sunlight and fruit – Avoid placing flowers in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as they can cause wilting and premature ageing. Keep flowers in a cool, indirect light environment to maintain freshness. Additionally, keep flowers away from ripening fruit, as the odourless gas it produces called ethylene can increase the petals dropping.
Change vase water regularly – Replace vase water every two days, or more frequently for delicate varieties. Cloudy or debris-filled water indicates bacterial contamination and should be replaced.
Use nourishing flower food – Add the liquid flower food (which is usually provided) to the water when arranging the bouquet. Remember to include flower food each time you change the water to provide essential nutrients for prolonged freshness. Or create a homemade solution using sugar and white vinegar to nourish flowers and prevent bacterial growth.
Handle flowers with care – Regularly check flowers for wilting petals and remove them to prevent bacterial spread. Handle flowers gently to avoid damage to stems and petals, ensuring long-lasting beauty and freshness.
Julian added: “Putting in the effort to take special care of cut flowers will both allow shoppers to get the best value for money and recipients to enjoy their gift for as long as they possibly can.
“Remember, you can always press or dry your flowers once they’ve reached the end of their lifespan to preserve their beauty and hold onto the significance behind them.”
For those seeking lasting alternatives, houseplants or garden flowers offer enduring beauty and joy for years to come.
With attention to detail and a commitment to care, Mother’s Day flowers can continue to brighten homes and hearts long after the special day has passed.
Visit ashridgetrees.co.uk/garden-trees for more information.
