Flower Care

When arranging
Fill your vase half to two thirds full with lukewarm water, this helps closed buds to start opening. Take care when un-wrapping a hand-tied bouquet as it is delivered in a water bubble to keep the flowers fresh.

Arranging your flowers in cold water should be avoided as this can significantly reduce the longevity of your gift. Do not put flowers in metal or aluminium containers, glass is ideal. Keep your flowers in a cool location, away from draughts, direct heat or sunlight.

Once unwrapped
Your flowers may take up to 24 hours after being placed in water to reach their full potential.
Strip off all excess foliage and leaves below the water level to reduce any harmful bacteria within the water. Bacteria can block the stem and stop the flowers taking up the water.

Trimming
Flowers like their stems trimmed. So, trim them, at an angle with a knife (rather than scissors) by an inch or so. When trimming stems, always cut at an angle of roughly 45degrees; this increases the surface area allowing your flowers to absorb more water.

If a Rose starts to droop at the head, re-cut the stem, wrap the head in paper to support it upright and plunge 5cms of the stem into boiling water for about 30seconds. Cut the stem again and place in deep cold water for two hours.

Feeding
every order is accompanied by a sachet of cut flower food which will encourage buds to open and help to prolong the life and beauty of your flowers. Top up regularly with water and flower food, removing any fading flowers. Ensure the floristry foam used in arrangements is moist and topped up daily; this helps to prolong the life and vibrancy of your arrangements.

A few little basics for plants

Keep your plants or planted arrangements out of drafts and any direct sunlight. And when it comes to water it's about finding the right balance - do regularly water but don't over water. Because of the pot or container they come, in we recommend you place them on a mat to protect your surfaces.

These care tips are brought to you in conjunction with the Flower & Plants Association