How to Double the Life of Your Flowers

With the right care, it's possible to get twice as much pleasure from your flowers.

Clean Vases - Clean Water - Clean Stems

• All containers should be thoroughly cleaned (Fill with a solution of water and bleach and leave to soak for several hours after every use)

• Refill with clean water, adding a quantity of "Flower Food" (If none available, a teaspoon each of bleach and sugar, dissolved in warm water, will help) NOTE: Gerberas & Native Flowers do not like Flower Food.

• Remove all foliage that would otherwise be below the water level

• Recut each stem at an acute angle with a sharp knife and place into the vase immediately

• Avoid placing your flowers near air conditioners, fans, heaters, in a draught or direct sunlight

• Remember, changing the water and recutting the stems every few days will extend the life of your flowers

Special Advice

Baskets & Arrangements
If your flowers arrive already arranged in florist foam it is important that the container is topped up daily with fresh water

Bouquets and Posies
These have already been arranged, ready to be re-cut and placed into a clean vase.

Plants
Most plants love light and an even temperature. They hate draughts. It is important not to overwater plants.

Roses & Gerberas
Should both be wire supported.

Australian Native Flowers & Gerberas
Should be in clean water only,no flower food,change water & recut stems often.Gerberas do not like to be in more than approx. 10cm of water.

Tulips
To straighten tulip stems, re-cut, wrap firmly in paper and stand in deep water for a few hours.

Sunflowers
Trim stems and immerse approximately 8cm of stem in boiling water for 30 seconds and then arrange in deep cool water.