Blog Post
How to care for your fresh flower bouquet
Oct 26, 2020
A vase of fresh flowers is one of life’s pleasures – lifting and refreshing rooms and moods in an instant. Whether it’s a bouquet you have been lucky to receive, an arrangement you have treated yourself to (and, why not!) or flowers cut straight from the garden, how you care for fresh flowers impacts their lifespan.
To help you get the most enjoyment from your glorious flowers, here are 5 simple tips to keep your flowers fresh:
Use a clean vase or container
It’s important to clean your vase before and after each use. A clean container reduces the risk of contamination of bacteria and other microorganisms from previous flower arrangements. It’s best to use a dark glass or ceramic vase, especially if you plan to place the flowers in a sunny position. The bacteria thrive in sunlight and increase the rate of stem decay.
Prepare the stems
Cut flowers last longer when the stems have been prepared correctly for display. How do you prepare fresh flowers for a vase? Trim around a quarter of an inch from the stem end at a 45-degree angle; this helps them to take up water quickly. Always use sharp scissors or a knife so you don’t crush the stems, and for best results, cut them underwater in the sink – this stops air getting into the flower’s veins.
Be mindful to remove any foliage, leaves or vegetation from the stems that will be below the water level of the vase. This reduces the risk of excessive bacteria causing your flowers to wilt.
Change the water daily
There’s nothing quite like the funky smell of stale stagnant water, rotting vegetation is not pleasant, and nor does it help your fresh flowers thrive. Change the water daily to flush out the bacteria and remove any fallen leaves. Try to avoid using cold water straight from the tap. Leave water to one side for it to reach room temperature and to allow the larger air bubbles to escape.
Choose a suitable location
Of course you want to showcase your beautiful flowers, especially if you have been showered with romantic roses, but you do have to be selective about where you place them.
Flowers do not like extreme conditions, so choose a location for your fresh flowers that is away from your HVAC units, sunlight or drafts from doors or windows. Heat and drafts cause flowers to transpire more water than they can pull up their stem so they wilt or brown at the edge. Ideally you should position your flower arrangement in a cool location out of direct sunlight to help preserve their beauty.
Use flower food
There are many myths and old wives’ tales about how to keep flowers fresh. Give them lemonade, an aspirin, add bleach or a copper penny; however, while these folklores are based on good intention, they fail to give the best combination of key ingredients. All Court Florist flower deliveries include a sachet of high-quality plant food to sustain the life of the flowers, just make sure you dissolve it with a quick stir.
At Court Florist our day starts early; we hand select the flowers from local markets and growers and choose only the freshest and most beautiful flowers for the day’s orders. Attention to quality and detail has earnt us our reputation as the best florist in Christchurch, and our customers enjoy their long-lasting fresh flowers as a result. If you are looking for advice about fresh flowers for an occasion or even our same day flower delivery (Christchurch), please do get in touch, we are more than happy to discuss your floral needs.
Sometimes mums do things purely with love, and other times it’s done with love but behind a veil of exhaustion and ‘if I have to tell you one more time’ frustration. They should be showered with gifts every day of the week for keeping the show on the road. However, Mother’s Day 2024 falls on Sunday 12th May in New Zealand, a special day to show appreciation for all she does. Mums are typically rather good at doing things for other people and putting themselves at the bottom of the list, which makes it a struggle to find the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. It’s not through lack of wanting to, rather it’s a challenge to find a tangible way to express the level of gratitude for the woman who does so much. So, if you have one of these hard-to-buy-for mums and are met with a ‘don’t worry about getting me anything’, Court Florist are here to inspire and help you find a Mother’s Day gift she will love. Fresh flower delivery for Christchurch mums Few things brighten a home and lift the spirits quite like a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers . Imagine the joy when she receives a stunning arrangement of blooms, meticulously curated by one of the best florist's in Christchurch, New Zealand. With same-day flower delivery available, Court Florist makes it easy to surprise her with a burst of colour and fragrance hand delivered to her doorstep. Terrarium For the mum with a green thumb or a penchant for unique decor, a terrarium is a fabulous choice . These miniature gardens make a striking addition to a house plant display bringing a touch of nature indoors. Terrariums, or bottle gardens, are long lasting, mess-free and easy to care for, and are both calming and therapeutic. A really lovely gift for busy mums.
Easter is a time of spiritual reflection and a promise of new life, and an important religious celebration for many, and like all other special occasions, flowers play an important role. From the colourful delight of tulips to the joyful vibrancy of sunflowers, fresh flowers are a symbol of new beginnings and renewal; a burst of colour and a heaven-sent fragrance, make Easter gatherings even more memorable. To help you florally prepare your home for Easter ready for a gathering of family and friends over the long weekend, here are Court Florist’s Christchurch florists’ favourites: Fill your home with blooms Of course we are going to say fill your home with flowers, but flowers deliver an abundance of cheer and goodwill – the key ingredients of any successful social gathering. A large bouquet of flowers such as the Jewel Tones Bouquet makes a stunning focal point for the main room you are entertaining in. Place smaller posies or sprigs in complementing colours in mismatched mason jars and vases around your home in less expected places – in the bathroom, on a bookcase shelf etc. This additional detail is delightful. For a cohesive and incredibly effective way to make Easter flower arrangements stylish is to use one colour across the different flower arrangements in your home. New Zealand’s climate ensures there is a large variety of fresh flowers in season , so you can have the same colours yet different shaped petals, tones and textures of flowers to make a dramatic impact.
When faced with the task of selecting funeral flowers, it's natural to wonder how much you should spend and what types of arrangements are appropriate. Arranging funeral flowers in Christchurch is a caring and comforting gesture to honour a person who has died and is a symbolic way to convey solace to the grieving family. As a compassionate florist serving Christchurch, New Zealand , Court Florist understands the importance of honouring loved ones with thoughtfully chosen floral tributes but has observed there is often a gap in knowledge about funeral flowers: how, what and when to send them. Here are some of the most asked questions about funeral flowers: Should you always send flowers to a funeral? Anyone can send flowers to a funeral, however, always take the lead from the family, or alternatively ask the funeral director for guidance. Some families request no flowers and opt for a donation to a charity meaningful to the deceased in place of funeral flowers. In this instance, an amount similar to what you would spend on flowers is a nice way to show support. Sending sympathy flowers to the bereaved is another way to express comfort. There is a distinction between funeral flowers and sympathy flowers; both serve as expressions of condolence, but they differ in their timing and purpose. Funeral flowers are specifically intended for the funeral service and are typically sent directly to the funeral home or venue, whereas sympathy flowers are delivered direct to the home. You can order same day flower delivery Christchurch or choose a later date. Sympathy flowers include arrangements such as bouquets, plants, or gift baskets , and are a popular way to share heartfelt condolences during a difficult time. Note: You should also consider the type of funeral service and the cultural or religious customs of the deceased and their whanau. Different religions will likely have different traditions and preferences for funeral flowers.
Valentine's Day is just around the corner, filling the air with romance and anticipation. The classic and timeless way to express affection is through the beauty of flowers. But with so many options available, how do you select the perfect Valentine’s bouquet? Whether you're in a budding relationship or celebrating decades together, a beautiful hand selected flower arrangement speaks volumes. As Christchurch’s leading florist, Court Florist and our team of floral design professionals are here to guide you through choosing your ideal Valentines’ Day flowers. How much should you spend on Valentine’s Day flowers? A question often asked is ‘how much should you spend on Valentine’s Day flowers?’ Too much can make the recipient feel as awkward as too little! The answer depends on how long your relationship is, and how committed you are to each other. Valentine’s Day flowers and gifts in the early stages of romance If you've just started dating, simplicity and thoughtfulness are key. Opt for delicate blooms like roses or gerberas, or a beautifully curated posy of flowers from our Victoria St store makes a lasting impression without overwhelming your partner. Remember, it's the sentiment that counts, not the price tag.
While the spotlight has been on Christmas flowers, gifts , good food and fine wines, there is nothing quite life the glitz and celebrations of a New Year’s Eve party. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the past 12 months, before looking forward to the new year ahead- a sense of renewal and anticipation fills the air. If you are planning a New Year's Eve celebration, or if you are attending a party and wish to thank the host – don’t forget the flowers. While fresh flowers add a touch of luxury to your celebration, they also represent the promise of new beginnings, symbolising hope, prosperity, and positivity for the year ahead. Our team of creatives at Court Florist can think of no better way to decorate your home than with flowers. For a truly unique and memorable New Year’s Eve party, our carefully curated flower arrangements and bouquets are a stunning personal touch. Whether it’s a few flowers or several complementing bouquets, flowers for the table , contemporary or traditional flowers, our exquisite selection of fresh flowers are a delight. But what type of flowers should you go for? White flowers for New Year’s Eve White is historically associated with purity, innocence, and new beginnings. As you usher in the New Year, incorporating white flowers symbolise a fresh start, renewal, and optimistic prospects for the upcoming year. Paired with soft lighting or candles, white flowers for NYE create an elegant, radiant and captivating ambiance. They are incredibly versatile and look fabulous in virtually any colour scheme or theme you might have for your New Year's Eve party.
With the festive season fast approaching, Court Florist in Christchurch is ready to transform your home and celebrations with Christmas flowers to reflect the natural beauty of the season. From traditional flower arrangements to contemporary styles, our expert florists sprinkle their magic using fresh flowers to capture the essence of Christmas. Incorporating flowers into a festive décor goes beyond aesthetics; they naturally evoke emotions of joy, gratitude, and positivity. Whether displayed as the centrepieces on dining tables or wreaths welcoming visitors to your home, flowers elevate the festive atmosphere. What are the best flowers for Christmas? If you are keen to display fresh, natural flowers in your home this Christmas, gifting to a host , or need to arrange a flower delivery in Christchurch for Christmas, but have no idea where to start, this article is for you. You can choose from Court Florist’s diverse selection of pre-designed, made-to-order fresh flower posies and bouquets , or we can craft a custom flower arrangement tailored to your unique preferences and needs. The first decision, however, is to choose a theme: Timeless tradition: Classic Christmas flowers For those who appreciate the timeless charm of tradition, the classic Christmas flower theme is the perfect choice. Think deep reds, velvety greens, pure whites and touches of gold, colours synonymous with a traditional palette: red and white roses, snow white lilies , sprigs of evergreen foliage.
Is there anything more joyous than the safe arrival of a baby? It’s a blessing that deserves celebrating, and what better way to extend your heartfelt congratulations to the family than with a fresh flower delivery? Throughout history, flowers have held a significant role in marking special events and occasions. Using the delicate language of nature, they have the remarkable ability to express a wide range of emotions and sentiments, without saying a word. When it comes to welcoming a newborn into the world, choosing the right flowers is a loving and thoughtful gesture. Whether you are a seasoned pro or it’s your first-time ordering flowers online, Christchurch’s Court Florist offer some invaluable tips on selecting the perfect floral and baby gifts to send to the new family. What flowers should I send for a new baby? The options for a flower delivery in Christchurch are endless, but here are some questions to answer to help narrow down your selection: Is it a girl or a boy? With so many flowers to choose from for your fresh flower delivery, finding out the gender of the newborn can be helpful in terms of deciding on colour scheme. Popular options for baby boy flower arrangements include irises, hyacinths, freesias, and statice. For baby girl flower arrangements, you can opt for charming tulips, delicate bouvardias, and sweet carnations. These blooms not only add a burst of colour but also symbolise the beauty and fragility of a new life. The traditional colours of blue for a boy and pink for a girl are not the only options. Contemporary new baby flower trends have expanded the colour palette to include a spectrum of hues including neutral tones such as cream and white, or a pastel posey of delicate and muted antique toned flowers. These versatile colours allow you to express your joy and best wishes while breaking away from traditional gender stereotypes.
With vibrant colours and a sweet fragrance, a bouquet of fresh flowers is always an enchanting way to brighten the home and celebrate special occasions . However, if you suffer from hay fever and allergies, the simple joy of receiving a fresh flower delivery can be inadvertently overshadowed by itchy red eyes, bouts of sneezing, and a runny nose – yes, we’re about to enter hay fever season. But relax, there are ways you can still enjoy your blooms without the symptoms of hay fever causing you issues. In this article, Court Florist of Christchurch share their practical tips to help you do just that. Seek out low pollen varieties Some flowers are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction than others, and you have diverse options of hypoallergenic flowers to choose from to suit the occasion. Roses, for example, create a surprisingly low amount of pollen which is too heavy to be airborne. Tulips, delicate orchids , peonies, carnations and hydrangeas are also hay fever friendly flowers. While the scent of fresh flowers can be delightful, highly fragrant blooms like lilies, freesias, and jasmine are best avoided as they can exacerbate hay fever symptoms.
Balancing the demands of family, career, aging parents, relationships, and nurturing a social life can be an intricate dance. It’s easy to lose sight of your own wellbeing and overlook taking care of yourself while tending to everyone else's needs. Selfcare is a word that has become more popular as people realise to keep the show on the road, they too need to be healthy and happy. Embracing selfcare, even with seemingly small gestures, is pivotal for your overall health. If you need a recharge in what feels like a long winter or are feeling exhausted, in a slump and in need of a holiday, we hear you. Court Florist (www.courtflorist.co.nz) are here to help. Whether you are yearning for a rejuvenating start, your energy to be elevated or you are seeking to cultivate tranquillity, look no further. Our bouquets of mood-boosting flowers and foliage is the botanical boost you need. Infuse positivity with bright and vibrant botanicals The unregulated and natural response to a bouquet of bright and vibrant flowers is to smile. Whether you are looking to arrange a surprise flower delivery in Christchurch for a friend, or enjoy the surge of happiness and optimism yourself, these flowers are nature’s dopamine. Think sunflowers, anemones, lilies, and dahlias – loud and proud with an abundance of colour and positivity. A calming retreat: serenity in every petal If you seek a serene infusion of calming hues to bring tranquillity to your space, or you crave the gentle majesty of white lilies with their stress-melting scent, a bouquet of flowers grounds and quietens even the busiest of minds. Solace and relaxation encouraged through soothing plants and blooms.
There’s nothing quite like that sense of dread that washes over you as you realise you’ve forgotten to acknowledge a special occasion. From forgetting a loved one’s birthday, the start of a new job, to say good luck or, and this can be highly problematic, your own wedding anniversary. (Survey findings* show that 82% of people have forgotten their anniversary at some point in a relationship. And although it might be common, 68% respondents mentioned they would break up with their partner for forgetting such a milestone! By the way, of the respondents surveyed that admitted to forgetting an anniversary, 82% identified as ‘men’) *Via dating.com 2023 survey – a division of Social Discovery Group USA owners of 40+ online dating sites. When the clock is ticking the panic is real. This is where same day flower delivery comes into its own. Court Florist’s same day delivery across all Christchurch suburbs, acts as a rescue service, allowing any situation to be salvaged by sending beautiful blooms or a bespoke gift basket as a sincere gesture of apology or belated celebration. In this fast-paced world where time is of the essence, same day delivery has emerged as a game-changer that gets your flower and gift orders delivered to their destination, fast, fresh and in beautiful condition. Same day flower delivery for more than forgotten occasions. Moments captured in full bloom. Life is full of spontaneous moments that call for immediate celebration or consolation. With same day flower delivery, these moments can be captured in full bloom. Sending flowers on the same day ensures emotions are expressed and memories cherished without delay. Spontaneous and thoughtful The ability to send flowers on the same day encourages spontaneity and thoughtfulness. Receiving a surprise bouquet or gifts out of the blue is pure joy. Same day flower delivery empowers you to be thoughtful and expressive, without waiting for a special occasion to convey your feelings.
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