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There's nothing more disappointing than watching beautiful flowers wilt prematurely. At Ladybird Flowers, we want your arrangements to bring joy for as long as possible. Here's our comprehensive guide to extending the life of your Kenyan flowers. ## The First 30 Minutes: Critical Care Steps ### Immediate Actions Upon Delivery 1. **Unpack Immediately**: Remove flowers from packaging as soon as possible 2. **Cut Stems Properly**: Using sharp, clean scissors, cut 1-2 inches off each stem at a 45-degree angle under cool running water 3. **Remove Lower Leaves**: Strip all leaves that would sit below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth 4. **Cold Water Bath**: Place stems in cool water immediately after cutting ### Why These Steps Matter The 45-degree cut increases the surface area for water absorption, while cutting under water prevents air bubbles from blocking the stem's vascular system. ## Daily Care Routine ### Day 1-3: Establishment Phase **Morning Routine:** - Check water level and top up with cool water - Remove any wilted petals or leaves - Rotate vase to ensure even light exposure **Evening Routine:** - Check for drooping stems and re-cut if necessary - Add flower food if provided ### Day 4-7: Maintenance Phase **Every 2 Days:** - Completely change the water - Clean vase with diluted bleach solution (1:10 ratio) - Re-cut stems by 1/2 inch at an angle - Add fresh flower food **Daily:** - Remove spent blooms and yellowing leaves - Check water clarity (cloudy water = bacteria growth) ## Flower-Specific Care Tips ### Roses (Kenya's Pride) - **Lifespan**: 7-14 days with proper care - **Special Care**: Cut stems under warm water; roses prefer slightly warmer water than other flowers - **Signs of Freshness**: Firm petals, strong stems, no browning at petal edges ### Chrysanthemums - **Lifespan**: 10-14 days - **Special Care**: Remove lower leaves completely; they're particularly prone to bacterial growth - **Pro Tip**: Crush the woody stems slightly to improve water uptake ### Carnations - **Lifespan**: 14-21 days (longest lasting cut flower) - **Special Care**: Cut between nodes (the swollen parts of the stem) - **Advantage**: Very hardy and forgiving for beginners ### Sunflowers - **Lifespan**: 6-12 days - **Special Care**: Heavy drinkers - check water daily - **Support Tip**: Use a tall, heavy vase to support their weight ## Environmental Factors ### Optimal Conditions - **Temperature**: 65-72°F (18-22°C) - **Humidity**: 30-50% - **Light**: Bright, indirect light - **Air Flow**: Good ventilation, but avoid direct drafts ### What to Avoid - **Direct Sunlight**: Causes rapid dehydration - **Heat Sources**: Radiators, fireplaces, direct AC vents - **Drafty Areas**: Can cause premature wilting - **Extreme Temperature Changes**: Shock the flowers ## Common Mistakes and Solutions ### Mistake 1: Using Tap Water Directly **Problem**: Chlorine and chemicals harm flowers **Solution**: Let tap water sit overnight before using, or use filtered water ### Mistake 2: Overcrowding the Vase **Problem**: Poor air circulation promotes bacteria **Solution**: Use larger vase or divide into multiple arrangements ### Mistake 3: Ignoring Flower Food **Problem**: Flowers lack nutrients for longevity **Solution**: Always use provided flower food, or make homemade version (1 tsp sugar + 1 tsp bleach + 2 tsp lemon juice per quart of water) ### Mistake 4: Cutting Stems with Dull Tools **Problem**: Crushed stems can't absorb water properly **Solution**: Always use sharp, clean scissors or floral shears ## DIY Flower Food Recipe When you run out of commercial flower food: **Ingredients:** - 1 quart cool water - 2 tablespoons white vinegar - 2 tablespoons sugar - 1/2 teaspoon bleach **Instructions:** Mix all ingredients until sugar dissolves. This provides nutrients (sugar), prevents bacteria (bleach), and improves water uptake (vinegar). ## Reviving Drooping Flowers ### Emergency Revival Technique 1. Re-cut stems under warm water 2. Place in warm water for 30 minutes 3. Move to cool water 4. Place in refrigerator for 1 hour 5. Return to room temperature ### When to Say Goodbye - Petals are browning or dropping excessively - Stems are mushy or slimy - Water remains cloudy despite daily changes - Unpleasant odor develops ## Seasonal Considerations in Kenya ### Dry Season (June-October) - Increase watering frequency - Use humidifier if possible - Move arrangements away from windows during peak sun hours ### Rainy Season (March-May, November-December) - Ensure good ventilation to prevent mold - Check for fungal issues on petals - May need less frequent watering ## Professional Secrets 1. **Aspirin Trick**: Add 1/4 crushed aspirin to vase water to reduce bacterial growth 2. **Refrigerator Method**: Store arrangements in refrigerator overnight to extend life 3. **Hairspray Technique**: Light mist of hairspray on petals can help them last longer 4. **Ice Cube Refresher**: Add 2-3 ice cubes to vase daily during hot weather ## Conclusion With proper care, your Ladybird Flowers arrangements can bring beauty to your space for weeks, not days. Remember, fresh flowers are living things that respond well to attention and care. The extra few minutes you spend daily will reward you with extended beauty and fragrance. *Need replacement flowers or have questions about care? Contact Ladybird Flowers - we're always here to help you enjoy your blooms longer!*