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Question 2/4 in General Care and Handling Of Cut Flowers FAQs


FAQs

Question:

How do I process and hydrate flowers?


Answer:

These are the general processing and hydration guidelines:

  1. Once you get the flowers to your destination, then you should immediately begin the processing and hydration. Do not delay!
     
  2. Fill your containers with enough tepid water (about 105 degrees Fahrenheit) so that 2/3 of the stem will be in water. It is highly recommended that you use a commercial flower food per package instruction. Floralife flower food is available for purchase when you pickup your flowers.
     
  3. Remove all wrap and packaging from your flowers. Carefully remove any foliage that would be below the water line. Try not to nick or damage the stem when doing this - water will not go beyond a deep nick or gash in the stem and the flower will not hydrate properly.
     
  4. Using a clean, sharp knife (**NOT CLIPPERS**) give each stem a fresh diagonal cut and put immedaitely in water. Floral knives are also available for purchase when you pick up your flowers.
     
  5. Your flowers should be placed somewhere cool and dark for a minimum of 2 to 4 hours to hydrate before you design with them. Once hydrated, they can be brought out and placed somewhere warm and bright (but never in direct sun or drafty locations!) so they can start opening. Evaluate periodically and those that have opened enough should be placed somewhere cool and dark to retard further opening until you're ready to create your bouquets or arrangements.

Care for specific types of flowers along with Tips and Techniques can be found in the FAQ section on our website.