Cut Flower Profiles
Gladiolus
Tuesday, March 15 | Cut Flower Profiles, Cut Flowers
The name of this flower derives from the latin word for sword - ‘gladius’ for its sword-shaped foliage. Like many bulb flowers, the gladiolus is native to South Africa. The Glad's large size makes it particularly useful in larger, showier event work. Gladiolus need a lot of water and do best when kept in a vase (vs. floral foam). Remember to recut your flowers’ stems and change their water regularly to maximize their water uptake and vase life. Glads are available year round, but their color and quality peak during the summer months. ...
Read More...Gerbera Daisy
Monday, March 14 | Cut Flower Profiles, Cut Flowers
Originally from South Africa, gerberas were first imported to Europe in the mid-1800s, but large-scale production for use as cut flowers has only developed within the last twenty years. The flower was named after the German doctor Traugott Gerber; they are also sometimes referred to as Transvaal Daisies or Barberton Daisies. As cut flowers, gerberas are particularly prone to stem blockage by bacteria. It is very important to re-cut gerberas stems and change their water daily. Miniature varieties are also cultivated and are referred to as Germinis. These smaller-bloomed varieties are particularly useful in bridal bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres....
Read More...Lily ‘Stargazer’
Monday, March 14 | Cut Flower Profiles, Cut Flowers
Lilies have been cultivated for over 3000 years. Feng Shui believers hold the lily as an emblem of summer and abundance while Greek mythology uses the lily as a symbol of tenderness. Lilies come in a variety of shapes and colors. The ‘Stargazer’ lily is one of the best-known oriental lilies with its red throat and blush petals. Lilies are long lasting as cut flowers. To prolong the life of your lily, re-cut their stems and change their water daily. Also, remove the pollen stamens as the flowers open to prevent staining of the petals. Oriental lilies are readily available throughout the year....
Read More...Fuji Chrysanthemum
Monday, March 14 | Cut Flower Profiles, Cut Flowers
Fujis (sometimes called Spider Mums) are examples of standard mums, meaning that each stem has a single large bloom. Cushion and Daisy type mums are also available as standards. These larger mums are known for their bold colors, hefty size and long vase lives. The plant originated in China and Japan where it became an important symbol in both countries’ cultures. Feng Shui adherents believe the Chrysanthemum brings laughter and happiness into the home. ...
Read More...Freesia
Monday, March 14 | Cut Flower Profiles, Cut Flowers
The freesia is a member of the iris family and is native to South Africa, although some species are found as far north as Sudan. Named after the German physician Dr Friedrich Heinrich Theodor Freese, the freesia is one of the most widely cultivated cut flowers in the world. The flower’s bright colors and sweet fragrance has made it synonymous with spring. Freesia keep best when their water is changed every other day. Be sure to trim the stems ½” every time you change the water. Avoid keeping them near fruits, vegetables, or excessive heat as they are sensitive to ethylene gas....
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