Design Tips - Conditioning Tropical Flowers

Anthuriums, Ginger and Birds of Paradise

Submerge entire bloom end under fresh room temperature water for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove flowers from water and cut about 1/2 inch off the bottom of the stem, and immediately put cut end in room temperature water. Mist the heads of the flowers daily and keep flowers away from heat sources and drafts.

Protea

Proteas have heavy woody stems and are prized for their extended vase life. Use a sharp knife or pruners and trim approximately 1 inch from the bottom of the stem. Place into a bucket of fresh, lukewarm water immediately. Do not refrigerate or store below 55 degrees F. Mist with fresh room temperature water once or twice a day. Proteas are very thirsty, so maintain an adequate supply of clean water.

You can dry protea by hanging them upside down in a dark area or by simply letting your arrangement dry naturally.

Tips for Tropical Flowers

Mist often with fresh, room temperature water.
Replace the water in your design daily.
Keep flowers away from heat sources and drafts.
Do not refrigerate.
Do not place design in direct sunlight.