Always cut the stems with a clean, sharp knife or shears. Gather flowers early in the morning or late in the day. Flowers cut early in the day are well-supplied with water and require less conditioning. When preparing to arrange the flowers, recut the stems underwater so that air bubbles don't block the movement of water into the stem. Use a clean container and fresh water to prevent the build-up of fungi and bacteria in the water.
Flowers are up to nine-tenths water.
Keep cut flowers supplied with water to prolong their life. Change the water in the vase frequently and keep the water reservoirs of arrangements filled at all times. Remember too that you don't need a special occasion to have cut flowers in the house. Co ntact Us Copyright 1996-2001 WSAZ and its content providers. Material from this site may not be reproduced in any form.