Florist Secrets : Top Tips for Buying Flowers
Sep 13, 2024
Navigating buying fresh flowers can seem daunting, especially when you want to ensure you're bringing home blooms that will not only provide immediate satisfaction but also last beautifully too.
In my years as a florist, I've learned that there are key secrets to choosing flowers that will bring joy and elegance to your home for days on end. Whether you're picking out a bouquet for a special occasion or simply looking to brighten your space, these insider tips will help you select the perfect flowers every time.
Seek Fresh Over Fragrant
While fragrant flowers are lovely, and I'm sure your favourite flowers are indeed lovely, please do prioritise freshness in every instance. Look for blooms with unopened buds and crisp, vibrant petals. Green leaves, strong stems, and a general appearance of health and vitality are key. Yellowing leaves? Do not buy. Dehydrated buds or blooms? Ditto. Fresh flowers not only last longer but also open beautifully over time, filling your home with their beauty over a longer period of time.
Inspect the Stem
The stem is a telltale sign of freshness. Choose flowers with firm, green stems that aren’t slimy or mushy. Apply the same principles as you would when buying fresh vegetables - strong stems, clean stems and most importantly, free of any sign of pests and disease. Healthy stems ensure that the flowers can absorb water effectively, keeping them hydrated and fresh for a longer period.
Shop the Season
Opt for flowers that are in season for the best quality and value. Local flower shops often carry seasonal blooms at their peak. Seasonal flowers are not only more affordable but also tend to be fresher and more robust, having been grown in optimal conditions - plus they're better for the environment for a multitude of reasons.
Beyond the Blooms
Don’t just focus on the flowers themselves, especially if you're buying a mixed bouquet. Look for bouquets with healthy, green foliage that complements the blooms. Vibrant foliage enhances the overall look of the arrangement and indicates that the flowers are well-tended and fresh.
Buds Are Your Friends
Buying flowers with a mix of open blooms and unopened buds ensures you’ll enjoy them for longer as the buds gradually open. This mix provides an ever-changing display as the arrangement evolves, offering continued beauty. Make sure all buds are fresh, green and firm to the touch.
Communicate with Your Flower Seller
Discuss the occasion and your desired colour scheme with your vendor. They can recommend the perfect flowers and create a stunning arrangement tailored to your needs. A good vendor understands the language of flowers and can guide you to choices that convey your sentiments perfectly.
The Art of Flower Buying
With these florist secrets, you'll soon be a flower-buying pro. Imagine strolling into your favourite flower shop, confident and discerning, selecting blooms that will bring life and joy to your home. Fresh flowers have a unique way of lifting our spirits and transforming our spaces. By choosing wisely, you ensure that their beauty and grace will brighten your home for days to come.
So, next time you're in the flower shop, remember these tips. Prioritise freshness, inspect those stems, and don't be shy to chat with your florist. Celebrate the season with the best blooms it has to offer, and enjoy the magic that fresh flowers bring into your home.
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Artist. Educator. Writer. Broadcaster.
