Cut Flower Care Tips

• Use blooms that have just opened, and include some buds
• Pick early in the morning or evening, so the stems are less likely to wilt
• Make a clean cut with shears or a sharp knife just above a side branch on which another bloom is forming
• Remove some of the leaves, and place the stems in WARM water, not cold, as soon as possible
• Take a container of warm water to the cutting garden, so you can place the stems in it right away
• Let your freshly cut blooms stand for about two hours in the coolest part of your house before arranging
• Remove any leaves that will be below the waterline in your vases to prevent decay and contamination
• Trim the stems using a sharp knife to be sure the cells of the stem are not compressed, which restricts water intake
• If using preservatives, add them right away, by putting them in the container of water you take to the garden
• When arranging your flowers, use only clean containers that are free of dirt or decay from previous flowers
• Add fresh WARM water every day, and if you have time, give them completely fresh water every day
• If you’re using a preservative, just add WARM water daily to replace what’s been used
• Try to keep your cutflower arrangements out of strong sunlight and drafts