How to Lengthen the Life of Your Arrangement

Whether it's a single bud, a small bunch, or an abundant arrangement, a little extra care can make a big difference!

For Floral Arrangements
Keep the vase filled (or floral foam soaked) with water containing a flower food provided by your florist. If the flower food solution becomes cloudy, replace it entirely. If possible, recut stems by removing one to two inches with a sharp knife. Keep flowers in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), away from direct sunlight and heating/cooling vents and ceiling fans. Do not place on top of televisions or radiators. (Appliances like televisions give off heat, causing flowers to dehydrate.)

For Loose Bunches or Boxed Flowers
If you purchase loose flowers for your own arrangements, look for flowers with upright, firm petals and buds beginning to open. Yellow, spotted or drooping leaves are signs of age. When using woody stems and branches from your own yard (such as quince, forsythia or lilac), cut the stem with sharp pruning shears.

Fill a clean, deep vase with water and add the flower food obtained from your florist. Be sure to follow the directions on the package. Remove leaves that will be below the waterline, as leaves in water will promote bacterial growth. Recut stems underwater with a sharp knife (this allows the stems to draw in water instead of air) and place the flowers in the vase solution you've prepared.

Plant Care

Keep Plants in Medium-Light Locations
Natural light is best, however, some plants also can thrive in office fluorescent light. Most flowering potted plants should be placed in areas with the most light in order to maintain good flower color and promote the maximum number of flowers to open. Foliage plants will do well under lower light levels and can be placed in areas providing reduced light.

Soil should be kept moist at all times...
Plants should not be allowed to dry out or wilt. However, avoid overwatering; do not allow plants to stand in water. Avoid wetting leaves.

Avoid Excessive Heat or Cold
Plants should be maintained between 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit for best performance.