Bacteria growing in the water is one of the things that makes cut flowers die more quickly. This method helps to reduce that bacteria by keeping the water fresh and free from growth.
Start by buying a fresh bunch of flowers. You can often find them for $10 or less at the grocery store. Most are labeled with a "purchase by" date so you can easily see which ones are freshest. (Although, this method will help even an older bouquet last longer and you can often get them half off.) When you purchase your flowers look for additional packages of flower food. You will need 2 packages or more. Most bouquets come with 1 packet and additional ones are often only a quarter or less.
Choose your first vase. You'll want a vase that's a little taller. Your first arrangement is going to be with longer stems. Fill your vase with water and add the correct amount of flower food.
Enjoy these flowers for 3-4 days.
After 3-4 days you'll want to recut all your flowers. I usually choose a shorter vase for this new arrangement and tend to go for a tighter, fuller look with my flowers.
Fill your new vase with fresh flower food. Add your flowers. Make sure each stem is well rinsed. If you want a short, full look you can arrange stems diagonally across the vase, placing the outside ring first, then using those stems to hold your inner blooms in place.
Treat yourself to a beautiful bunch of flowers this week. It will seem very worthwhile if you can make those flowers last more than a week!
Thanks for the idea! I always make sure to remove most all the leaves because them being in the water just adds to the bacteria. But I never thought about making two arrangements out of one!
ReplyDeleteI also cut the stems at a diagonal and cut them under running water. Both tips from my Mom who is a much better gardener than me!
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