Make your flowers to last longer by following the suggestions given here. Proper care of cut flowers starts with basic knowledge of "the science of flowers " and the right methods of cutting and preparation.

 Why do flowers die or deteriorate?

1. Wilting -- Best time to Harvest _____________________________

Clogged stems caused by 1) ___________________ 2) ____________________ 3)_________________

Tips: RE-CUT stems and don't over-_________________

2. Food Supply is Used Up -- Best time to Harvest ____________________________

Keep flowers and foliages ______________________________

Use ________________________________________________

3. Damage from Diseases or Insects -- Avoidance

examples

4. Exposure to Ethylene Gas -- What is it?

Sources?

5. Genetic Life of Each Kind of Flower

. . . . . Words to remember . . . a life skill, folks . . .

WHEN to cut

WHAT to cut

HOW to cut

EXTRA TIPS:

Preparing or Conditioning the Flowers for Design Use, (THE BIG 3) :

1.

2.

3.

Allow time __________________for the flowers to take up the solution before using or placing in a cooler.

Special Treatments

Woody Stems

Bleeding Stems(milky sap)

Floral Preservatives -- Why should we use them?

Why do they work?

The INGREDIENTS and their FUNCTION

1.

2.

3.

Home Remedies

HOW TO BUY A ROSE

Buy roses that are in the right stage of development and have been conditioned with floral preservative.

AVOID:

1. Old roses with loose petals, little bud in the center, a dull or faded look, or with foliage that is over soaked.

2. Green roses, roses that have been cut too tight, roses with no sepal (prone to bent neck and may never open)

CARE AFTER RECEIVING A ROSE

1. Remove all foliage that will be under water.

2. Cut one inch of stem under warm water….or cut stems and place immediately in a quick dip hydration solution. These techniques ensure that water, NOT air, will enter the system.

3. Place stems immediately into the floral preservative solution until ready to arrange.

4. Use a floral preservative! If designing in floral foam, soak the floral foam in the floral preservative solution.

5. Always use clean containers and shears.

REVIVING WILTED ROSES

1. Hold stem under water and immediately re-cut 1/4 to 1/2 inch of stem.

2. Leave for 10 minutes.

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