Arranging a Bouquet of Flowers
Start by choosing blooms that are just starting to open. Be sure that stems are firm and that petals look healthy. Pull off any leaves that will be covered by water when the stems are in the vase. Then submerge the stems in water and cut them diagonally with a knife or shears. Select a vase that has a neck and water reservoir large enough to hold the flowers comfortably. Add a packet of flower food to the warm water in the vase and begin arranging. Insert stems of foliage and filler flowers first. Crisscross the stems as you insert them to form a grid that will hold the other flowers in place. Start at the vase's rim and work toward the center when you add other flowers, placing the longest stems in the center of your bouquet.
Essentials for your flowers
Keep them in a cool place (65-72 degrees, can be stored as low as 40 degrees), away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, direct drafts from a ceiling fan, and the tops of televisions or electronic appliances. Appliances give off heat, causing flowers to dehydrate.
If the solution becomes cloudy, replace it entirely. If possible, recut the stems by removing one to two inches with a sharp knife.
Remove leaves that will be below the waterline. Leaves in water will promote bacterial growth that can harm the flowers.
