I think we have all had the experience of selecting what we thought were fresh, beautifully cut flowers from a florist or market, only to get them home and see them wilt in just a couple of days. It’s so frustrating and such a waste of time and money!
There are ways of assessing the freshness of flowers. Here are a few indicators:
Appearance of Petals and Leaves:
Look for vibrant, crisp petals and leaves. Avoid flowers with wilting or browning petals, as these are signs of aging.
Firmness of Stems:
The stems should be firm. Avoid flowers with mushy or slimy stems, as this can indicate decay.
Water in Vase (if applicable):
If you are purchasing flowers from a florist or market, check the water in the vase. It should be clean and free from debris. Cloudy or foul-smelling water may indicate bacterial growth.
Buds and Blooms:
Closed buds should be well-formed and show good color. Avoid flowers with buds that are overly tight. Blooms should be fully opened; not drooping or withering.
Fragrance:
Fresh flowers often have a pleasant and characteristic fragrance. A lack of fragrance or a musty odor may indicate age or poor quality.
Petals and Blooms:
Gently touch the petals to ensure they are not bruised or damaged. Inspect the blooms for signs of mold, mildew, or discoloration.
Leaves:
Leaves should be crisp and green, not wilted or discolored. Check for any yellowing or browning on the leaves, which may indicate aging or poor health.
Insects and Pests:
Examine the flowers for any signs of pests or insects. While a few bugs might be harmless, an infestation could be detrimental to the flowers.
Consistent Bloom:
If buying a bouquet with different types of flowers, ensure that all the flowers are at a similar stage of bloom. This ensures a more uniform appearance for your bouquet as your flowers open.
Vendor Reputation:
Purchase flowers from reputable vendors known for their fresh and high-quality products. If you are buying from a florist, inquire about their sourcing practices and how often they restock their inventory.
By paying attention to these factors, you can better assess the freshness and quality of flowers before making a purchase. Of course, it is always a good idea to promptly place fresh flowers in cool water as soon as possible and follow proper care and maintenance instructions in order to prolong their freshness at home.
Glass Wrappings offers a variety of beautifully decorated containers that will complement any bouquet of fresh flowers! See what’s available: glasswrappings.com