We at Connells Maple Lee Flowers and Gifts work very hard to bring you the freshest flowers possible. We are diligent in our selection of only the highest quality flowers, work directly with the growers, and go to great lengths to ensure they are handled with expert care once they arrive.
However, there are some steps you can take at home to ensure that our flowers last as long as possible.
Tip #1 – Buy from a local shop that only sources the best quality flowers
If you get your flowers from us this step is already covered. But no matter where you are buying your flowers, it is important that you know where their flowers are from, how they transport them and how they care for the flowers once they receive them.
Don’t be afraid to ask. A good florist will be able to answer these questions for you without hesitation.
Buying flowers from a local florist is important because of the amount of care that is taken in the selection of flowers. While many floral retailers ship their flowers using ocean containers and ships, Connells uses air shipping to speed up the time between the flowers being cut and arriving at your doorstep.
Tip #2 – Remove low leaves
If you are purchasing a handheld bouquet, there are extra steps that need to be taken when placing the flowers in a vase to ensure flower longevity.
First, remove leaves that will be submerged in water when placed in the vase. This can lead to mold. Be careful to not remove the leaves that will be above the water line however.
Tip #3 – Choose the right vase
Don’t just pull the random vase out from under your kitchen sink and plop the flowers in. That’s a recipe for failure.
First, make sure that the vase fits your flowers. Ask yourself, will the flowers be able to stand up straight and not tip over? Will all of the leaves be underwater (remember, that’s not good)?
If the vase will fit the flowers, then make sure you clean it if it’s dusty or hasn’t been rinsed since it held its last bouquet. Make sure there is no soap residue left behind before filling the vase with water.
Tip #4 – Use the flower food
Don’t forget about the packet of flower food your florist should have given you when you purchased the flowers.
Read the instructions on the back of the packet carefully as the ratio of water to food is very important and the amount of food you should use will be different for every vase. Mix the food with the water before adding the bouquet.
Tip #5 – Cut your stems
Before placing your flowers in the vase, cut the stems at an angle. This will help with water uptake.
Tip #6 – Keep the water clean
For best results, don’t ignore your flower care after initially setting them up. As you’re admiring them, check that the water is clean. Make sure it’s not cloudy or full of debris. If you notice this, change the water immediately. The quick extra step will extend your flower’s life.
If you follow these tips, your beautiful flowers can last up to two weeks.