The centerpieces They are an essential decorative element at any event or to beautify a space in the home. They are often made with natural flowers, providing a fresh, colorful and vibrant touch. However, the challenge lies in keeping these flowers in perfect condition for as long as possible. The freshness of the flowers is key to making the centerpieces look spectacular at all times.
Did you know that you can extend the life of your fresh flowers with simple techniques? In this article, we'll dive into practical tips and help you keep your centerpiece flowers fresher for longer.
How to choose quality fresh flowers
Before learning how to preserve flowers, it is essential to select the right ones from the start. Not all flowers have the same durability, so choosing correctly will make all the difference in your centerpiece:
- Look at the petals: Choose flowers with petals that look firm, shiny and show no signs of discoloration or wilting.
- Check the stem: Make sure the stems are green, fresh and free of brown spots or signs of damage.
- Choose flowers at their right point: It is preferable to select flowers that are partially open, as this ensures that they will continue to bloom and maintain their freshness longer.
- Avoid yellow leaves: Discard any flowers with wilted leaves, as this may be an indication of a lack of freshness.
Some flowers that are ideal for their durability are carnations, chrysanthemums and rosesThese provide an elegant look and usually maintain their freshness for longer periods.
Preparing flowers before placing them
Once you have your fresh flowers, it is crucial to prepare them properly to maximize their shelf life:
- Clean the stems: Remove the lower leaves to prevent them from being submerged in water, as this promotes the proliferation of bacteria.
- Cut diagonally: Use sharp gardening shears to cut the stems at a 45-degree angle. This improves water absorption.
- Soak the stems: Before placing the flowers in the vase or centerpiece, soak the stems in warm water for an hour to hydrate them.
Tips to keep your water clean
Water is essential for the freshness of flowers. Follow these tips to keep it clean and fresh:
- Change the water regularly: Ideally, every two days.
- Clean the vase: Wash the container with warm water and a drop of bleach before refilling.
- Add preservatives: Use flower food packets or a mixture of a tablespoon of sugar and a few drops of white vinegar in water.
Strategic location: The best place for your flowers
The environment where you place your centerpieces also significantly impacts the durability of the flowers:
- Avoid direct sunlight: Fresh flowers wilt faster under heat and intense sunlight.
- Keep them away from drafts: Place them in a cool place protected from the wind.
- Do not expose them to heat sources: Avoid placing them near radiators, ovens or hot appliances.
Special techniques to prolong freshness
There are some additional tricks you can apply to keep flowers fresh longer:
- Hardening of flowers: Place the stems in warm water (about 40°C) and then refrigerate the flowers for one to two hours. This helps preserve their freshness.
- Spray the flowers: Gently spray water on the petals, especially in dry climates.
- Periodic pruning: Cut the ends of the stems every three days to improve water absorption.
Common mistakes you should avoid
To avoid compromising the freshness of your flowers, avoid making the following mistakes:
- Leaving leaves submerged in water: This encourages the development of bacteria.
- Not checking the water level: Make sure the stems are always well submerged.
- Using inappropriate scissors: Cutting with dull tools can damage the vascular system of the stem.
Centerpieces with natural flowers not only beautify any space, but also bring freshness and joy. By following these tips and techniques, your flowers will stay in their best condition for longer, allowing you to enjoy their beauty and fragrance to the fullest.