Flower and plant care

Every Interflora order is accompanied by a sachet of cut flower food which, if used according to the instructions on the packet, will help to prolong the life and beauty of your flowers. The following care instructions are designed to help your flowers last and look their best to ensure maximum pleasure from the gift and are also included with every delivery.

Bouquets and roses

To enable you to enjoy your gift for as long as possible, some of your flowers may still be in bud. Take care when removing the cellophane. This is sometimes used as a reservoir for water to keep your bouquet fresh during delivery. Cut the stems at an angle about 3cms from the end. Place in deep water and stand in a cool, shady place for an hour or more.

Keep your flowers in a cool location away from draughts, direct heat or sunlight. Top up regularly with water and flower food. Further supplies of flower food are available from your local Interflora florist. If a rose starts to droop at the head, re-cut the stem, wrap the head in paper to support it upright and plunge 5cms of the stem into boiling water for about 30 seconds. Cut the stem again and place in deep cold water for two hours.

Hand-tied

A 'hand-tied' bouquet is skilfully arranged so you can place the flowers straight into your favourite vase. The bouquet is delivered in cellophane flower wrap with a bubble of water to ensure the flowers are as fresh as possible. Release the water from the bouquet by cutting a hole in the cellophane over a sink. Remove all gift wrapping but do not untie your flowers. Follow care instructions as for bouquets.

Arrangement

The flowers are carefully arranged in floral foam, which is usually contained in a tray or basket. Carefully top up the container with water every day.

Plants

Most plants like light and an even temperature. Avoid draughts, fumes and cold. Foliage plants require little water in winter. Flowering plants generally need more water. Every plant has its own specific requirements and all plants should be fertilised as required. Your florist will give you instructions and be pleased to answer any queries you may have. For example, you will need to water Azaleas and Hydrangeas daily and water St. Paulia and Cyclamen plants from the bottom and not the top.