What To Know
- If you don’t have a water filter, bottled water is a good alternative as it’s free of contaminants.
- You can also remove any leaves that will be submerged in the water as they can decompose and contaminate the water.
- Placing a penny at the bottom of the vase is said to help keep the water clean and prevent bacteria growth.
Gerbera daisies, with their vibrant colors and cheerful faces, are a beloved choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. But their beauty can be fleeting if you don’t know how to keep cut gerbera daisies alive. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to extend the life of your gerbera daisies, allowing you to enjoy their vibrant presence for longer.
1. Choose the Right Gerbera Daisies
The first step in ensuring your gerbera daisies last is selecting the right ones. When buying cut gerbera daisies, look for the following:
- Freshness: The petals should be firm and free of wilting or browning. Avoid daisies with soft or mushy stems.
- Color: Opt for daisies with vibrant, even color throughout the petals. Avoid those with faded or discolored areas.
- Stems: The stems should be straight and sturdy, without any cuts or bruises.
- Hydration: The stems should feel firm and not limp or dry.
2. The Importance of a Clean Vase
Gerbera daisies, like other flowers, are susceptible to bacteria growth. A dirty vase can harbor bacteria that can quickly shorten their lifespan. Always clean your vase thoroughly before arranging your gerbera daisies. Wash it with warm, soapy water and rinse it well. You can also add a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to the vase and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing it thoroughly.
3. The Right Water for Gerbera Daisies
The type of water you use can significantly impact the longevity of your gerbera daisies.
- Tap Water: While tap water is readily available, it often contains minerals and chemicals that can clog the stems and prevent water uptake.
- Filtered Water: Filtered water removes impurities and minerals, making it a better choice for gerbera daisies.
- Bottled Water: If you don’t have a water filter, bottled water is a good alternative as it’s free of contaminants.
4. The Art of Stem Trimming
When you first receive your gerbera daisies, trim the stems at an angle. This helps the flowers absorb water more efficiently. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears for a clean cut. You can also remove any leaves that will be submerged in the water as they can decompose and contaminate the water.
5. The Power of Flower Food
Flower food is a specially formulated solution designed to nourish and hydrate cut flowers. It contains sugars, acids, and antibacterial agents that help to keep the flowers fresh and vibrant. You can purchase flower food at most florists or garden centers.
6. Strategic Placement for Gerbera Daisies
Where you place your gerbera daisies can also affect their lifespan. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as these can cause them to wilt and fade quickly. A cool, shaded location is ideal for preserving their beauty.
7. Keep the Water Fresh
Change the water in your vase every 1-2 days, or more frequently if the water becomes cloudy or discolored. Also, re-trim the stems at an angle each time you change the water. This will help them absorb water more effectively.
8. A Touch of Magic: The Penny Trick
While not scientifically proven, many florists swear by the penny trick. Placing a penny at the bottom of the vase is said to help keep the water clean and prevent bacteria growth. The copper in the penny may have some antibacterial properties, but it’s not a guaranteed solution.
9. Extending the Life of Your Gerbera Daisies
If you notice your gerbera daisies starting to wilt, there are a few things you can do to revive them:
- Cold Water Bath: Submerge the entire bouquet in a sink filled with cold water for an hour. This helps rehydrate the flowers.
- Sugar Solution: Add a teaspoon of sugar to the vase water. Sugar provides energy for the flowers.
- Re-trim the Stems: Trim the stems again at an angle and remove any wilted petals.
10. Farewell to Your Gerbera Daisies: The Final Farewell
Even with the best care, cut gerbera daisies will eventually fade. When they reach the end of their lifespan, dispose of them properly. You can compost them in your garden or add them to your green waste bin.
Embracing the Beauty of Gerbera Daisies
By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of gerbera daisies for longer. Remember that every flower has a lifespan, but with proper care, you can make their beauty linger a little longer.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use water from my refrigerator for my gerbera daisies?
A: While cold water is good for gerbera daisies, water from your refrigerator can be too cold and shock the flowers. It’s best to use cold water that is at room temperature.
Q: How often should I re-trim the stems of my gerbera daisies?
A: You should re-trim the stems every time you change the water, which is usually every 1-2 days.
Q: Can I use baking soda instead of flower food?
A: While baking soda has antibacterial properties, it doesn’t provide the nutrients that flower food does. It’s best to use flower food for optimal results.
Q: What are some alternative ways to keep cut gerbera daisies fresh?
A: You can also try using a vase with a narrow neck to reduce the amount of air that the flowers are exposed to. Additionally, placing a piece of charcoal in the vase can help absorb impurities and keep the water clean.
Q: Can I revive wilted gerbera daisies?
A: While you can try to revive wilted gerbera daisies using the methods mentioned above, it’s not always guaranteed. If the flowers are severely wilted, they may not recover.
