Flowers

If you've read my previous posts, you know how much I LOVE roses.  That sentiment extends into my home decor.  I buy roses every week for myself (I will beat (with said roses) the next man who stops me on the street to ask "Who the lucky guy is?" No one, I buy them for me. I DON'T NEED A MAN TO BUY ME FLOWERS!)

Okay, I digress..

What I really wanted to share was how to care for fresh flowers.  I have a notoriously black thumb when it comes to plant life but I love my fresh flowers.  

Some of this stuff might be no-brainers but after a few conversations with friends, I've realized I've learned some tricks over the years to help keep them happy and healthy.

First, when buying them from a shop, bodega, etc. try to find out how long the flowers have been sitting there.  Flowers don't tend to do well in the heat, so if you see a stand outside and they have been sitting there for days they will probably die once you take them indoors.  (Even with some TLC.)

When I get them, I don't bother having the sales person cut them.  They won't know your vase height, how you want to arrange them, etc.  Also you'll need to cut them when you get home. I bought a great pair of garden shears at my ACE Hardware for under $10.

When I get them home I immediately grab a vase, empty flower food pouch and fill it with very cold water (the colder the better).  Tap water works, but I like to just use water I've had in the fridge (like in a Brita jug).  If you don't have water that is cold enough, I'd suggest adding some ice.  

People tend to be very split on how well flower food works, even my flower guys. I must say the times I haven't given them food, the flowers have died within a couple of days.. So I don't test it.

Once removing the plastic compare the height of your flowers to the vase, will you want to cut them down a bit, etc.  When arranging roses I like the ones in the center to be a bit taller than the ones on the boarder, I think it even makes them look a little fuller.

Always best to cut them under very cold water and at cut the stem on an angle. Once cut, place them immediately in the water.  (ProTip:  Make sure to let your shears dry out by leaving them open to dry, so they don't rust.)

Depending on the temperature of your home, it's best to replace the water every 3 days or so.  (Ask your shop for some extra flower food.)  If your apartment is really hot, try to replace the water or throw in some ice every day. 

Let me know if you have any #protips!