Frequently Asked Flower Questions

Q Why shouldn't I use kitchen scissors to re-cut my flowers?
A Most scissors have thick, dull blades and will crush the stems as they cut through them.
This clogs the stem's opening, impairs water absorption, and causes flowers to wilt prematurely.
   
Q If a flower is open, does it mean it's old?
A No, but this is a common misconception. Many flowers open in the light, this doesn't mean
they aren't fresh, it's just the nature of the flower. Temperature will have the same affect.
Warmer temperatures will cause flowers to open, and cooler temperatures will cause them to
re-close.
   
Q What should I use to clean my vases?
A A drop of bleach and dish soap will clean away residue and kill any bacteria that may be left
behind. If you’re using a dishwasher be sure to quickly scrub out your vase with some bleach water.
Sorry, no short-cuts!
   
Q Will putting my flowers in the fridge help them live longer?
A No. Many fruits and vegetables give off ethylene gas which causes flowers to prematurely
decompose. Also, most refrigerators are kept at a temperature that is just too cold for flowers.
It would be better to place them near an open window for a fresh draft.
   
Q Why should I re-cut my stems at an angle?
A It increases the surface area of the stems and allows for better water absorption. This technique
also prevents stems from sitting flat against the bottom of the vase which can trap air and cause
further blockages.
   
Q Does misting my tropical flowers really help them live longer?
A Yes! Tropical flowers are grown in humid environments and can absorb moisture through
their petals. By misting them with water every day or two, you can temporarily re-create
their natural environment, keeping them healthy and hydrated for longer.
   
Q Why should I remove leaves that fall below the water line?
A Leaves and foliage that remain underwater will rapidly decompose. This creates harmful
bacteria that shortens the life of flowers and causes the water to smell really bad!
   
Q How do I water my arrangement?
A Flowers love water so don't be afraid to pour water directly over your arrangement.
Topping up the water level everyday will flush out any old water and prevent the hassle of
having to remove the flowers from the vase to properly clean it out.
   
Q Why can't I mix Daffodils with other cut flowers?
A Daffodils are poisonous to other flowers. A milky sap leaks from their stems that pollutes
the vase water and causes other flowers to decompose.
   
Q How often should I water my plants and bulbs?
A Almost every plant needs a different watering schedule so it's always a good idea to research
your plants if you're unsure. As a general rule, always water gently, allowing your plants to drink-
not swim! If the leaves look floppy or dehydrated, give your plant a drink. If the soil feels damp,
your plant should be okay for a few days.
   
Q How long should my flowers last?
A Different verities of flowers have different standards of vase life, but some can last for
up to three weeks if they are properly looked after. By re-cutting stems and changing the
vase water every day or two, you'll get noticeable longevity from your cut flowers.
   
Q Are there flowers I can't send to the Hospital?
A Unfortunately, yes. It's important to be aware of other patients when choosing flowers to send
to the hospital. Many people with allergies or asthma are irritated by heavily scented blooms,

ie Freesia, Stock, or Lilies. Also, be sure the flowers you are sending are arranged in a vase
since hospitals workers will not be able to provide one.
   
Q How can I tell how fresh a flowers is?
A Watch out for brown or dehydrated looking petals, floppy stems, and loose pollen. Always buy
flowers from a reputable florist, and don't be afraid to ask which days of the week flowers
are brought in!
   
Q Why are Gerberas sometimes wrapped with wire?
A Some flowers, such as gerberas, bend or droop because their heads become too heavy for
their stems to support. By carefully wiring them, they can stand up straight and you are able
to enjoy them for longer!
   
Q Why are there so many names for the same kind of flower?
A Flower names can be confusing. Take a Lily for example, its common name is Lily, and it’s
botanical name is Lilium, although it can sometime be called by its variety name (i.e. Stargazer)
to describe the colour. It takes years to learn, so don't be afraid of calling flowers by a wrong
name, most florists should know what it is your asking for.

 

 
T - 250.386.4741
F - 250.386.4731
TF - 800.731.9977
569 Johnson Street - Victoria, BC - V8W 1M2