Fresh Cut Flowers

From a single bud, to a small bunch to an abundant arrangement, just a little extra care to your fresh cut flowers can make a big difference. Most fresh flower arrangements last from 4 to 7 days, depending on the type of flowers used and the type of flower care they receive.

Tips for caring for fresh flowers:

• Keep the vase filled or floral foam soaked with water containing a flower food.
• If the flower food solution becomes cloudy, replace it entirely.
• If possible, re-cut the flower stems by removing one to two inches with a sharp knife.
• Remove any leaves that will be below the waterline. Leaves in the water will promote bacterial growth, causing the flowers to wilt quickly.
• Use warm water when adding water to the vase or refilling it.
• Keep fresh flowers in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid placing your flowers near heating or cooling vents, areas directly under ceiling fans, or on top of televisions or radiators.
• Appliances such as televisions and radiators give off heat, causing the fresh cut flowers to quickly dehydrate.

Tips for caring for fresh flowers boxed or in loose wrapped bunches:

• If you can't get your fresh cut flowers into a water and flower food solution right away, keep them in a cool place.
• Fill a clean, deep vase with water and add the flower food, following the directions on the package.
• Re-cut flower stems with a sharp knife. Do this underwater, in warm water. This allows the stems to draw in water instead of air.
• Then place the fresh flowers in the vase solution you've prepared.
• When using woody stems and branches (such as forsythia, quince or lilac), cut the flower stem with sharp pruning shears.

Indoor & Office Plants

Indoor plants and office plants are easier to care for than you might think. You don't need a green thumb to keep your plant healthy and thriving - in fact, you don't need to do much at all. With just a little attention to appropriate lighting,watering, and temperature, your plant will be a beautiful reminder of the person who gave it to you for many months to come.

Remember when you are caring for a plant in your home or office, to move it to a sink or water safe area. Water the plant and allow excess water to run out the bottom of the pot into a sink, bucket or saucer. Prune leaves or blossoms that are past their prime and do not allow dropped leaves or debris to collect on top of the soil inside the pot to decrease the chance of pests or diseases.

To make your plant shine, wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth and then return the plant to its pot and then to its setting.