Proper care and handling of sunflowers
Proper care and handling of sunflowers
Sunflowers are very hardy but they are thirsty flowers and drink a lot of water. When selecting sunflowers, look for strong, straight stems, perky flowers that look at you and good green foliage, as these are all signs of healthy flowers.
• Select a vase of sufficient size and depth to support the stems and the flower’s weighty heads.
• Remove the leaves that will fall below the waterline.
• Cut the flower stems under water, at an angle.
• Place flowers into cold water containing a fresh flower food solution.
• Re-cut one-half-inch from the base of each stem under water with a sharp knife with each water change.
• Change the water and flower food solution every three days, keeping the water level near the top of the vase. Remove any foliage that may become submerged after re-cutting.
• Keep sunflowers in an area less than 80 degrees, or they will open too quickly and petals will begin to fall or wilt.
• With proper care, sunflowers should last from six days to 12 days, depending on cut-stage.
• Sunflowers also dry well. Prop several stems in a vase, or hang them in a well-ventilated, warm area and let air dry.
