If you have used a floral preservative with your cut flowers before, then you know that they help maximize the life of fresh cut flower arrangements. Many florists hand out packets of flower food with their arrangements. If you are like me, you read the directions and pour the packet directly into the vase and mix it with the amount of water it calls for. This is NOT the correct way to use it!
To understand why requires a brief look into how a floral preservative works. They extend the life of cut flowers in three primary ways. First, they contain an antibacterial agent that cleanses the water and interior of the vase. Bacteria in the water can clog the stem’s water intake abilities. This will cause them to wilt prematurely and die. Second, they contain a food for the flower to help the bloom continue to process sunlight. Finally, the floral preservative adjusts the pH balance of the water to optimize water intake. Allowing for this balancing is the primary reason to mix separately so that the water entering the vase is already pH balanced.
When mixing your floral preservative, use a non-metallic bowl. Make sure you add the correct amount of preservative to the right volume of water. Empty the vase holding the cut flowers and add the water mixed with floral preservative.
This should help extend the life of your fresh cut flower arrangement.
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Hope this helps!
