Dubai’s hot and dry climate presents challenges for keeping cut flowers fresh, but with the right techniques and additives like flower food or lemon, you can extend their vase life. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
1. Choosing and Cutting Flowers
a. Selecting Resilient Flowers:
- Choose flowers known for their durability in heat, such as roses, lilies, chrysanthemums, sunflowers, and orchids. These varieties tend to withstand Dubai’s climate better.
b. Timing and Technique for Cutting:
- Harvest flowers early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize stress on the flowers.
- Use sharp, clean shears to cut stems at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water absorption.
c. Removing Foliage:
- Strip leaves from the lower part of the stems that will be submerged in water. Leaves left in water can decay and promote bacterial growth.
2. Conditioning the Flowers
a. Hydrating and Using Floral Preservatives:
- Immediately place freshly cut flowers in a bucket of lukewarm water. Add a commercial floral preservative to the water to provide nutrients, maintain pH balance, and inhibit bacterial growth.
- Follow the instructions on the preservative packet for the correct dosage.
b. Alternative: Lemon-Lime Soda Solution:
- If you don’t have floral preservatives, you can use a homemade solution with lemon-lime soda. Mix one part lemon-lime soda with three parts water. The sugar provides nutrients, while the citric acid lowers the pH and acts as a mild antibacterial agent.
3. Vase Preparation
a. Clean and Fresh Water:
- Thoroughly clean the vase with soap and water to remove any bacteria that could shorten the flowers’ lifespan.
- Fill the vase with the prepared water (either with floral preservative or lemon-lime soda solution).
4. Arranging and Placement
a. Avoiding Direct Sunlight and Heat Sources:
- Place the vase in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause flowers to wilt prematurely and fade.
- Keep the vase away from heaters, appliances, and air vents, as these can accelerate water evaporation and dehydration.
b. Good Air Circulation:
- Ensure there is sufficient air circulation around the flowers to prevent humidity buildup, which can lead to mold. However, avoid drafty areas that may dry out the flowers.
5. Maintenance Tips
a. Regular Water Changes:
- Change the water in the vase every two to three days, or sooner if it becomes cloudy or dirty. Clean water reduces the risk of bacterial growth and keeps the flowers hydrated.
b. Stem Trimming:
- Trim the stems slightly each time you change the water. Cut at an angle to maintain an open surface for water absorption.
c. Removing Spent Flowers:
- Promptly remove any wilting or dead flowers from the arrangement. Decaying flowers release ethylene gas, which can accelerate aging in other flowers.
6. Additional Tips for Dubai’s Climate
a. Using Flower Food:
- Commercial flower food contains ingredients that nourish flowers and help prolong their freshness. Follow the package instructions for mixing ratios and usage.
b. Lemon Slice in Water:
- For a natural alternative, add a few slices of fresh lemon to the vase water. The citric acid acts as a natural antibacterial agent and helps lower the pH of the water, which can benefit some flowers.
c. Avoiding Fruit Proximity:
- Keep floral arrangements away from ripening fruits, as fruits release ethylene gas, which can hasten flower wilting.
7. Refrigeration Overnight
- If possible, place the flower vase in a cool room or refrigerator overnight. The cooler temperatures slow down the flowers’ respiration rate and extend their freshness.
Conclusion
By following these detailed tips, including the use of flower food or lemon in vase water, you can significantly prolong the beauty and lifespan of your cut flowers in Dubai’s challenging climate. These techniques help provide essential nutrients, maintain water quality, and inhibit bacterial growth, ensuring your floral arrangements remain fresh and vibrant for as long as possible. Enjoy the elegance and fragrance of your flowers with these effective strategies tailored to Dubai’s unique environmental conditions.