Valentine’s Day is a florist’s favourite holiday but most of the time these one-day-gifts are forgotten about a week later. Sad wilting flowers definitely do not say eternal love – keep them alive with these tips for fresh Valentine’s Day Flowers.
Cut Flowers:
The V-Day staples are typically red roses, with lilies and tulips also a common option that say love and passion. There is also the occasional bouquet of left overs that say I forgot and this is all they had left. No matter the intention, every flower is a gift and it’s not hard to treat them like one:
- Cut the stems at an angle to make sure they can absorb water. Repeat every 2 or 3 days.
- Remove leaves below the water line to prevent bacteria growth and place the bouquet in room temperature water. Replace the water every few days to prevent cloudiness.
- Myths like bleach, pain tablets, coins and hairspray are sworn by remedies but in reality, don’t do much for your flowers. Adding ¼ cup of a clear sugary soda, adding a splash of vodka or putting your flowers in the fridge overnight are a few ways to make your flowers look brand new, even 10 days later.
Orchids:
For the extravagant and possibly suggestive suitor, orchids are the flower of luxury and seduction. Although they may have a reputation for being difficult to take care of, a little attention to their environment can keep them going, making great indoor plants:
- Place in a mild, humid environment with occasional sunlight.
- Water well, but not often as the roots need time to dry out. In summer, water once a week and winter, once or twice a month.
- Transfer to a new container once it is finished blooming as store containers are typically not suitable for long term growth. A chunky, well-draining medium with things like bark, rocks, and even styrofoam covered with moss works best. Orchid growing mediums are available online or at most garden centres.
Roses:
Roses don’t have to be given in the typical ‘dozen’; a flowering rose bush is also a great long-lasting alternative. However, longevity requires a bit more attention than a perishable bouquet:
- Replant soon, either in a new container or in the garden as store containers usually do not leave enough space for the bush to grow. Water on the first day and replant once the soil has dried out.
- Replant with a mixture of compost, bone meal and fertilizer and plenty of space between other plants. Must receive a minimum of 5 hours sun.
- Water the roses daily until there is new growth and water often afterwards.
