There are two main types of flower arrangements: Vase Arrangements and foam-based arrangements. Vase flower arrangements are flowers that are arranged in a vase. Foam based flower arrangements are arranged in wet foam so they can take many different shapes and forms. Flower care varies for each of these different types of arrangements.

Vase flower arrangements are the most common flower type that consumers think of when they go to pick up flowers from a flower shop. A vase is filled with water in such a manner that the water does not spill out of the vase when the flowers are added to the vase. The water level is typically 3/4 to the top of the vase. Flowers are then cut and placed in the vase for an aesthetically pleasing arrangement. The stems of the flowers are cut at a 45-degree angle to optimize hydration of the flower. Once the flower delivery is completed to the recipient, then the enjoyment begins. To extend the vase life of the flower arrangement, the following steps can be taken:

Take the flowers out of the vase by holding them together in a way they don't shift.

Trim the flower stems- a 45-degree angle trim is optimal, but not necessary.

Replace the water in the vase with fresh water.

Place the flowers back in the vase just as they came out.

This process can be done every 3-4 days.

Foam flower arrangements contain a wet foam that the flowers are placed in to hold their shape. You see this is most arrangements that are not in a vase. Examples of this include flower arrangements that are in baskets, on stands (such as easels for funerals), and any other form not including a vase. Although the care for these type of flower arrangements are much easier than the vase flower arrangements, the lifespan of the flowers are shorter because of it. The only hydration technique one can use is to add enough water to hydrate the foam the flowers are arranged in to provide a water base. This allows an opportunity for the flowers to get water into the pores of their stems.

When flowers arrive to a flower shop they are dehydrated as most of the world’s flowers are cut at a flower farm and shipped from Quito, Ecuador. So, the florists process the flowers when they arrive at the flower shop. This usually entails cutting all stems so fresh pores are open and available to provide nutrients to the actual flower. A special hydration solution is used to process the flowers and they sit at room temperature for a few hours before being placed in a refrigerated cooler to avoid shock. Most flowers, except for tropical flowers, require a typical temperature range from 33-37 degrees Fahrenheit. Your home will not be set to that temperature. So, rule of thumb, in addition to the hydrating procedures above, is to keep the fresh cut flowers in your home as cool as possible to extend their life. It is also advised to keep them out of direct sunlight as this will increase the surface temperature and cause the flowers to wilt.

To keep it simple, hydration and cool temperatures are a good way to extend the life of your fresh cut flowers. All Flowered Up Too takes pride in the handling of our flowers to deliver the freshest products to your door.