TIPS FOR YOUR FLOWERS

Arrangements:
To keep your flowers, a single, a bunch or a huge display, at their best always keep the vase filled or floral foam soaked with water containing flower food.

Keep flowers in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees F.), out of direct sunlight, away from heating or cooling vents, not directly under ceiling fans, or on top of televisions or radiators. (Appliances like televisions give off heat, causing flowers to dehydrate.)

If the flower food solution becomes cloudy, replace it entirely.  If possible, re-cut stems by removing an inch or two, with a sharp knife.

Roses:
Roses are thirsty flowers.  Check daily that the vase's water level is full, with preservative solution.

If a foam material is used in assembling, it is important that this foam is thoroughly saturated, with a floral preservative.  Be sure that the rose stems are inserted well below the solution level. Do not move the stem end after inserting them into the foam. This may leave an air pocket at the base.

**** Premature wilting is not a sign that the rose is old. It usually indicates that air is trapped in the stem.  The end of the stem may be blocked.  Re-cut the stem and submerge the entire rose in a shallow container of warm water (about 100 degrees F). Be sure to keep the stem and head straight. It will usually revive within an hour and can be placed back in the container. ****

Loose flowers:
If you can't get your flowers in a flower food solution right away, at least try to keep them in a cool place.

Fill a clean, deep vase with water and add flower food. (Be sure to follow the directions on the package.)  Avoid using artificially softened water.  If floral preservative is unavailable, try a can of any citrus soda in a gallon of water.  If possible, place vase in a cool dark room for conditioning for 2-3 hours.

Be sure to remove leaves that will be below the waterline, as leaves in water will promote bacterial growth.

Re-cut stems with a sharp knife. If done underwater, the stems will draw in water instead of air -- and place the flowers in the prepared vase.  Do not let the cut end dry before placing into your prepared container.  I

Tips when purchasing flowers:

Look for blossoms with upright and firm petals.  Look for buds that are beginning to open.  Yellow leaves will never turn green again.  Spotted or drooping leaves are signs of age.
 
For woody stems and branches (like lilac or apple blossom), cut the stem with sharp pruning shears. Plunge into warm water, into which a flower food has been added, to promote flower opening.

Poinsettia Care

Location and Temperature

Poinsettias thrive on indirect, natural daylight. Exposure to at least six hours daily is recommended. Avoid locations where the plant is exposed to direct sunlight, as this may fade the bract color. If direct sun cannot be avoided, diffuse with a light shade or sheer curtain.

To prolong the bright color of the poinsettia bracts, daytime temperatures should not exceed 70 degrees. Avoid placing the plants near drafts, excessive heat or dry air from appliances, fireplaces or ventilating ducts.

Water and Fertilizer

Poinsettias require moderately moist soil. The plant should be thoroughly watered when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Remove the plant from decorative pots or covers, and water enough to completely saturate the soil. Do not allow the poinsettia to sit in any standing water; root rot could result which could kill the plant.

It is not necessary to fertilize the poinsettia when it is in bloom. However, a balanced, all-purpose household plant fertilizer may help customers maintain rich, green foliage and promote new growth after the holidays. Follow the directions on the fertilizer label.

After the Holidays

Even if you don't have a green thumb, the poinsettia can provide enjoyment throughout the year as an attractive green foliage plant. When the bracts age and lose their aesthetic appeal - usually by late march - the poinsettia should be cut back to about 8" tall. The amount cut from the top of the plant will depend upon its shape; some plants will need more pruning than other to achieve a full, rounded canopy. Place plant outdoors, where it can bask in the warmth of spring and summer, after outside night temperatures average 55 degrees or above. Continue regular watering during the growth period. Fertilize every three weeks throughout the spring, summer and fall months with a well-balanced, complete fertilizer.

Around June 1, poinsettias may be transplanted into larger pots. Select pots no more than 2" larger. A soil mix high in organic matter is highly recommended or you may transplant into a garden bed. The flower bed must be rich in organic matter and have good drainage.

Poinsettias do best in a protected area, preferably along a south wall. As soon as the plant is transplanted - soak thoroughly.

Re-flowering

Starting October 1, the plant must be kept in complete darkness for 14 continuous hours each night. Accomplish this by moving the plants to a totally dark room, or by covering them with a large box overnight. October through early December, the plants require 6 to 8 hours of bright sunlight daily, with night temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees. Temperature outside this range may delay flowering. Continue the normal watering and fertilizer program. Following this regime for 8 to 10 weeks will result in a colorful display of blooms for the holiday season.

Although the re-flowering process takes more than a little perseverance for success, with care and attention you can enjoy the beauty of this traditional holiday favorite for many seasons to come.