One,
if not the biggest time for cut-flowers is approaching quickly- Valentine’s
Day. Survey those special women in your
life, and they will most likely remember the last time you gave them fresh
flowers. And why not? A floral bouquet has an immediate positive impact on the
recipient. Here are some tips for Valentine’s Day.
Keep
in mind the personality of your Valentine. Dr. Terrill Nell, University of
Florida professor of Floriculture, offers these hints, based on traits:
- Natural types, earthy and outdoors: tend to like flowering or green plants and meadow flowers.
- Romantics like pastel colors, ribbons, and light fragrances.
- Expressive personalities like exotic flowers, unusual combinations of shapes, colors, textures and creative arrangements
- Traditional people enjoy classic styles and lush arrangements
- Trendsetters favor styles in vogue right now, or a display of a few but large flowers.
Whether
it is the classic and timeless dozen red roses, or a last minute dash to the
store type arrangement (because I forgot it was February 14th AGAIN),
here are a few things to remember in choosing cut flowers:
- Look at the petals- there should be no marking, damaged, or brown areas
- Look at the foliage- there should be no wilting, and should be crisp
- Look at the stem- there should be no slime and should be in clean water
To
make your bouquet last the longest, bring the flowers home as soon as possible.
Remember, the stem is the bloom’s source of vitality. Cut a small portion of
the stem off, underwater, and place them in your choice of a vase filled with
fresh water. Most floral shops provide a preservative to enhance the life of
the bouquet. Be sure not to use, aspirin, wine, pennies, mouthwash, and other
lore, they do not extend the bloom time and may be harmful. Finding a suitable
location helps, too. Choose one with bright lighting, even temperatures, and no
draft. Keep the bouquet away from ripening fruit as they emit ethylene gas and
will age the flowers faster. Proper care
can extend your colorful expression up to two weeks.
Most
importantly, Don’t forget. February 14th is six days from now, so mark your
calendars.
The
Penn State Master Gardeners have information on making fresh flowers last
longer. Please call 570-963-6842 or email LackawannaMG@psu.edu and
request a free copy of Long Lasting Cut Flowers.
Steve Ward
Master Gardener Coordinator
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