Flower Possibilities Bouquet Boot Camp

Bouquet Boot Camp Common Flower Favorites

Identify Five Favorite Flowers

Roses - The rose ranks number one as America's favorite bloom. These timeless, beautiful flowers originated more than 4,000 years ago and today come in many shapes, sizes and colors including three popular types: sweetheart, spray and hybrid tea.

Gerbera - This cheerful blossom is like a burst of sunshine in any bouquet. It has grown in popularity in recent years and is available in over 160 colors, with light or darkcolored centers, and in standard or micro sizes.

Lilies - This showy bloom has proven a consistent star in the flower world. Available in white, cream, yellows, reds, pinks and bi-colors, these fragrant flowers are a popular addition to dramatic bouquets.

Alstroemeria - With a meaning of "wealth and prosperity" it's no wonder this flower is a favored addition to flower bouquets. With multiple blooms per stem, this long-lasting flower can make a bold statement with only a few stems.

Carnations - As one of the longest-lasting fresh-cut flowers, carnations are a time-proven bouquet flower. This well-known bloom is grown in a plethora of colors and sizes and new frequently become available.

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Bouquet Care & Handling

Extra care of fresh-cut flowers can prolong the enjoyment period. Following are some tips to help get fresh-cut flower arrangements off to a good start:

Cool Off - While preparing to put the flowers in a vase, store the blooms in a cool place.

Keep it Clean - Vases, floral clippers and knives should be clean. How clean the tools and container are can truly affect the presentation and life of the flowers. Wash the tools and selected flower container with a detergent or antibacterial cleaning solution.

Food for Thought - Commercial flower food solution is a must. Follow the mixing instructions on the flower food packet. Most packets should be mixed with either a pint or a quart of water. Flower foods should not be diluted with more water than is specified.

Leaf 'Em Out - If the leaves on the stems will fall below the water line, remove. Leaves in water will promote bacterial microbial growth that may limit water uptake by the flower.

Under the Knife - Re-cut stems by removing one to two inches with a sharp knife while under running warm water. Place the flowers in the vase solution you've prepared.

Climate Control - Keep fresh flowers out of direct sunlight and away from drafts (like air vents, heater vents, or fans).

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