From our perspective, the journey from the comfortable, nutrient-rich soil of the field or greenhouse to a sterile vase is a profound shock. Our stems are severed, abruptly halting the steady flow of water and nutrients we rely on. We are transported to a new environment with different light, temperature, and humidity levels. To ensure our longevity, you must help us recover from this trauma. Immediately upon arrival, re-cut our stems under lukewarm water. This removes any air bubbles that have formed and block our vascular systems, allowing us to drink deeply and rehydrate.
Our primary need is water. We are thirsty. Please place us in a impeccably clean vase filled with fresh, lukewarm water. Cold water shocks our systems, while hot water damages our delicate tissues. While we can survive on water alone, a floral preservative provided by your florist is immensely beneficial. This solution is not merely food; it is a complete life-support system. It contains sugars to nourish us since we can no longer produce energy through photosynthesis without our roots, biocides to suppress the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi in the water, and acidifiers to maintain the water's pH at a level that optimizes our water uptake.
Our preferred environment is cool, stable, and gentle. Please keep us away from direct sunlight, which will cause our delicate spathes (the colorful part often mistaken for a petal) to wilt and fade prematurely. Similarly, keep us far from heat sources like radiators, appliances, or heating vents, as excessive heat accelerates our metabolism, causing us to age rapidly. We are also highly sensitive to ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone that triggers aging and decay. Ripening fruit (like bananas, apples, and tomatoes), exhaust fumes, and cigarette smoke are common sources of ethylene. Exposure will cause our spathes to yellow and collapse quickly.
To ensure we remain vibrant, our water must be changed every two to three days. Each time you change the water, re-cut our stems by about half an inch. This maintains a fresh, unclogged pathway for hydration. As you do this, gently rinse our stems to remove any slippery bacterial film. Keep a watchful eye on our leaves and spathes. If you notice any beginning to fade or wilt, carefully remove them from the arrangement. This not only keeps us looking our best but also directs all our remaining energy and water to the healthy parts of the plant, extending the life of the entire display.
