Preserving Cut Flowers
It's summertime and the season for fresh flowers. Preserving fresh cut flowers is sometimes difficult. After all, you want the blooms to last as long as possible. The next time you cut a fresh bouquet, try any of the tips below to extend the life of the blooms.
- Flowers with hollow stems output a milky type of substance after they are cut. In order to make them last longer, these stems need to be seared. To do this, hold the end of the stem over the flame of a candle or lighter. They will last even longer if you put the stems in warm or lukewarm water instead of cold after they have been seared.
- Add a teaspoon of vodka or gin to the water in your vase.
- Another method to help them last longer is to use the following solution - 2 drops of household bleach, 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 quart of water
Here are a couple of hints to perk up flowers that are starting to droop
- Add equal parts of water and a citrus flavored soft drink that contains both carbonation and sugar (like Sprite). Flowers will perk up in a matter of hours.
- You can also try a solution of 2 Tablespoons of vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 quart of water.
Enjoy those fresh cut flowers of summer and if you have a tip you would like to share, please feel free to leave a comment.