How To Tell If The Flowers You're Buying Are Fresh
Have you ever bought a bunch of flowers, taken them home, popped them into a vase and the next day they look sad and wilted? It’s so disappointing. And while no-one expects flowers to be ever-lasting, they should stay looking fresh and healthy for several days - or even weeks.
One of the most important things you can do to make sure your flowers have the longest vase life possible is to get in the habit of inspecting flowers before you buy them. You’ll soon learn to choose only those that are the freshest. Here’s what you’re looking for:
Buds:
The buds should be in the beginning stage of opening. (If the buds are tightly closed, it’s possible they’ve been harvested too soon and may never open.)
Gently feel the petals and make sure there is a firmness to them - you don’t want them to be limp.
The colours should be bright - not transparent.
Roses - Check the underside of the bud. If a few petals have been removed, that’s okay. Those were just the guard petals that protected the rose during transport, but if many petals have been removed that indicates someone is trying to hide the fact the flower is old.
Tulips - Most tulips we buy seem to come in a cellophane sleeve. A good indication the tulips are old is if they have grown above the top edge of it.
Leaves:
Check the leaves are bright coloured with no yellowing or browning. The leaves should be firm (not limp) and definitely not falling off the stem as soon as you pick the flowers up.
Stems:
Again colour and firmness are the most important things to look for. If the stem is limp and/or discoloured that flower won’t last much longer.
Fragrance:
Not all flowers are scented, but fragrance is still important to check. An old flower will smell of decay and should definitely be avoided.
Water:
If possible - check the bucket of water the flowers are being stored in. If it’s cloudy, dirty, or has leaves floating in it, skip those flowers. They’re sitting in bacteria and that will shorten their lifespan.
Being an educated shopper is the first step in making sure your flowers will last as long as possible. The second step is correct care once you get them home. Check out these previous blog posts to learn more:
How to Make Your Flowers Last Longer
Secrets Revealed - Top Tips for Making ‘Tricky’ Flowers Last Longer
