David Austin Pink Cloud Constance Garden Rose

Caring for Your Garden Roses

Our flowers are shipped fresh directly from our farms to your doorstep. When you first open the box, your flowers might appear "sleepy" or "thirsty," which is completely normal. These flowers have just completed an international journey and need water. Following the important care and preparation steps below will help rehydrate them and ensure they last as long as possible.

Flower Care Steps – From Arrival to Arrangement

Step 1: Unpack and Inspect

• Unpack and Inspect: Cut any straps to remove flowers from the box, but leave their protective packaging on for the first 4 hours of hydration. As you unpack, check your blooms for any visible concerns.

• Process Immediately: Begin the steps below immediately upon opening the box to ensure your flowers rehydrate and recover from their journey.

Step 2: Prepare the Containers

• Choose Clean Buckets or Vases: Ensure your containers are clean and sanitized to remove soap residue, bacteria, and dirt, which can shorten flower life.

• Fill Containers: Add at least 4 inches of cool, fresh water, and mix in flower food if available.

Step 3: Trim and Place in Water

• Remove Foliage Below the Waterline: Strip leaves that will fall below the waterline to prevent mold or bacteria growth.

• Cut Stems Correctly: Use clean, sharp floral shears to cut stems diagonally about 1 inch from the bottom. Avoid household scissors, as they pinch the stems and block water absorption.

• Place and Space: Place the freshly cut stems into the prepared water immediately, ensuring enough space in each container to allow the flowers to bloom properly.

Step 4: Hydrate and Maintain

• Hydration Time: Allow flowers at least 4 hours to hydrate, though 8 to 12 hours is ideal. After hydrating, remove protective packaging and guard petals (outer layers that may look bruised or brown).

• Store in a Cool Place: Keep flowers in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, drafts, and heat. Avoid placing them in a refrigerator, as this can harm flowers.

• Monitor Water Levels: Flowers drink heavily upon arrival, so check frequently to ensure all stems are always submerged. If the water drops below the stems, refill immediately and recut them before placing them back in the container.

Step 5: Time to Design

• Ready to Arrange: After completing the hydration and processing steps above, your flowers are now ready for design.

• Recut and Maintain: As you design, make sure to recut the stems and maintain water levels.

• Refresh Regularly: Change water daily and recut stems every 24-48 hours to keep flowers fresh.

Tips from Our Experts

• Always keep flower buds above the bucket or vase rim to prevent your blooms from bruising.

• Warm environments speed up blooming, while cooler areas slow it down. Adjust storage as needed, but always avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.

• Use a floral finishing spray after arranging blooms to help them last longer.

Precautions

• Thorns: Flowers with thorns require extra care. Wear gloves when handling them, and consider using a thorn stripping tool for added ease and safety.