Flower Care & Preparation

Our flowers are shipped directly from our partner farms. Receiving wholesale flowers is different than receiving flowers from a grocer or florist. Depending on the type of flower there may be extra leaves/foliage, thorns, guard petals, anthers, etc. that can be removed. Following the important care and preparation steps below will help ensure the quality and extend the vase-life of your flowers for as long as possible. Most flowers require the same general care however there are a few that need special attention. If your flower requires additional care steps it will be listed below, simply click on the type of flower to be taken directly to the page that details the care for your flowers. If you do not see your flower type listed below, please continue to the General Flower Care section.

Flowers may arrive looking “sleepy” or “thirsty” after their journey, this is NORMAL, please follow the care tips to begin hydrating your flowers properly. We always recommend that you care for your flowers immediately upon arrival. Many of these flowers have just completed an international journey and will be thirsty. We can’t stress enough that this is normal and there’s no need to be alarmed, your flowers need water and time to hydrate for their big debut. You are going to provide care for the flowers just like a professional florist!

1. Open your boxes and inspect your flowers. Remove flowers from box by cutting any straps. Do not remove the rubber bands holding the flowers together in a bunch.
2. Fill containers with at least 4 inches of fresh, cool water. Mix flower food in the water to prevent bacteria and give added nutrients to the flowers. If you do not have flower food, it can be purchased at any local florist. We can not guarantee that every farm-fresh shipment will include these, flower food can be purchased from a local florist.
3. Remove any foliage from the flowers that falls below the waterline of your vase. In removing foliage, care should be taken not to damage the stem. The reason for removing any foliage below the waterline is to prevent growth of mold or bacteria which could cause premature wilting.
4. Cut stems diagonally under running water using sharp scissors or a knife, approximately one inch from the stem’s bottom edge. An angled cut will allow for a larger surface area for water absorption and prevents the ends of your stems from sitting flat in the container blocking water absorption. Immediately after cutting, place the stems in the prepared water.
5. Allow flowers at least 4 hours to hydrate well. Most flowers will take up to 8 to 12 hours to properly hydrate.
6. Keep flowers in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight, drafts or excessive heat.
7. Change water every 24 hours and re-cut stems every 24 to 48 hours to keep flowers fresh. Assure that your flowers have sufficient water. The flowers will drink an exceptionally large amount of water upon arrival.

Remember that exposing flowers to warm environments (outside, a hot room, sunlight, etc.) will help the flowers bloom, and storing your flowers in a cooler environment will slow down the opening process. Most flowers should be kept in a cool, dark location unless you are trying to speed up the blooming process. Always avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Also, keep flowers away from fruits, vegetables and/or plants which produce ethylene gas. Ethylene in the surrounding area could cause your flowers to wilt.