Caring for fresh flowers

• change the water in the vase everyday so that flowers are being hydrated with fresh water daily as over time bacteria will breed in the water and reduce the lifespan of the flowers

• trim the base of the stems at a 45 degree angle to give the stem more surface area to drink. Cutting the stems flat might also make it harder for the flowers to drink as the stem is pressed against the base of the vase

• remove any leaves that are touching the water as rotting leaves encourage bacteria growth in the water

• avoid placing the flowers near direct sunlight, heat and ripening fruit as these will accelerate the wilting of flowers

• it is best to keep the fresh flowers in an air-conditioned room but away from the draft of the aircon

Following the tips above will help to increase the longevity of the fresh floral arrangement by an average of two to three days, depending on the flower variety’s suitability in Singapore’s hot climate.

To dry the flowers, simply hang them upside down. Leaving the arrangement upright will result in gravity pulling down the heavier flower heads and the weakened stems are no longer able to hold them up. After approximately one to two weeks, when the flowers are fully dried, you can place them in a vase to be appreciated over time.

Caring for preserved flowers

• keep away from sunlight to minimize decolourisation of the flowers

• keep away from moisture (and water) as it will cause the flower petals to turn transparent

• use a blower that is set to low speed to blow away any dust from the flowers. A hairdryer could do the trick and help to reduce the moisture that has set into the flower petals overtime

• place the flowers in an area with good air circulation to minimize mould growth, such as near the draft of the aircon or the fan (but not too near the window if your window tends to get a lot of direct sunlight)

Following the tips above will help to increase the longevity of the preserved floral arrangement for months to come, and if diligent care is observed, the flowers could even last past a year!