Buzz
Fresh flowers not only enhance the beauty of a space but also bring much spiritual value, especially during Tet. However, without proper care, flowers will wither within 1 or 2 days. So how can you keep flowers fresh for the entire 9 days of Tet?
Choose Fresh Flowers
When selecting flowers, choose those with sturdy stems and leaves. Truly fresh flowers have vibrant stems, leaves, and blossoms. The stem should be green, firm, and straight, while the leaves should appear robust, healthy, with deep green color, not wilted or yellowing.
Choose flowers with vibrant colors, healthy petals, and sturdy stems. You can test by gently pressing your fingertips on the flower head to check its firmness. The petals of older flowers are softer than fresh ones. Aged flowers often have a dull outer layer on the stem and leaves, lacking shine and firmness. When kept in cold storage, they tend to wither quickly when exposed to sunlight.
Furthermore, carefully inspect the cut; if the old cut is dark, it indicates that the flower has been cut for a long time and should be avoided. If purchasing a bouquet, remove any wilted flowers to prevent them from affecting the others.
Prepare the vase
You should thoroughly clean the flower vase before arranging or changing the water, especially scrubbing the inside of the vase to remove any residue or soap, as chemical substances can alter the pH level in the water, causing the flowers to wilt quickly.
Before placing flowers in the vase, trim off all wilted or crushed leaves, as well as any leaves submerged in water to prevent decay, which can cause the flowers to wither quickly. Additionally, soak the flower stems in warm water and use sharp scissors to cut them, avoiding widening the cut marks on the stems. Remember to cut at an angle to increase the surface area for water absorption, allowing the flowers to stay fresh longer.
Change the water: Change the water for the flowers every day, preferably in the early morning or evening, placing them outside to catch the pure morning dew and rejuvenate. Each time you change the water, trim the stems to allow better water absorption. If any flowers in the vase wilt, remove them immediately to prevent them from affecting the others.
Add aspirin to the water: This increases the acidity level in the water, helping the flowers stay fresh longer.
Place coins in the vase: Few people know that metal is a natural antibacterial agent, which helps flowers last longer without rotting.
Add a few drops of mouthwash: It will kill bacteria, odors, and buildup in the vase.
Add white vinegar to the vase for 1 minute before arranging: Vinegar will combine with water to prevent decay. As a result, the flowers will stay fresh until the third day.
