A Valentine Rose

Valentines Day is the time of the year when red roses are given in a loving gesture.

Due to many years of experience, I still find it hard to understand why so many people do not prepare them for a vase.

With roses especially on such an expensive occasion as Valentine's Day they need to be cared for. Just these simple steps will ensure many days of pleasure.

1. Remove all wrapping

2. Take of leaves that will be under the water line of your chosen vase.

3. Fill your vase with fresh cold running water and add the flower food (supplied in most case...

Alstromeria

As WIth all flowers clean water is the key factor in extending vase life.

Before arranging or placing in a vase leave the paper wrapping on and slant cut the stems stand the flowers in clean water for a few mins.

should you have been given flower food with your flowers add this to the water as this stops contamination anf bacteria forming and will even help the small buds to open.

Always remove the lower leaves and never allow foliage below the water line.

Alstomeria is a long lasting flower and should last for a minimum of 2-3 weeks.

Amaryllis

Just a tip for your cut Amarylliss now that they are back in season.

For vase use.

Take a slim garden/plant cane and cut it to the size of the amarylliss stem, insert the cane up into the center of the stem, push cotton wool into the base to stop the cane from falling out. This will give support and keep your amayllis from bending or folding over in the vase.

For arranging in flower foam leave the cane approx. 1inch longer and cut both the cane and the stem on a slant this will enable ease to put into the foam along with supporting the flower to arrang...