HOME & Style Flowers
Continued from page 15 * Remove leaves.Take off the
leaves of the plant that would end up underwater in the vase. Exposure to the water could cause the leaves to rot and fall off, creating algae or sludge in the vase water. It also may breed extra bacteria or attract small insects to the water. However, do not to remove the thorns from roses, as this tends to shorten their shelf life. * Choose young flowers. Mature
flowers may have peaked and begun to make room for a new round of blooms, so try to choose young buds or blooms that just opened so that you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy them longer. * Create a viable water atmos-
phere. Once a fresh flower is cut and a stem is placed in water, bacteria and fungi can start to grow almost immediately. These microscopic or- ganisms can clog the small tubes in- side the stem that suck up water for nourishment. Many florists send home a packet of water additive to
alleviate some problems in the in- door
environment.The packet will contain a biocide that kills bacteria and fungi. There will be an acidifier as well as sugar. The acidifier makes the water more acidic to allow better absorption of water up the
stem.The sugar is a food source for the flow- ers. Homeowners who cut flowers from their gardens can purchase these additives or create their own variations from items around the house. It has been said a penny in the water will kill the microorganisms because copper is a fungicide. An aspirin can make the water more acidic.You can also try small amounts of bleach, lemon-lime soda or even antiseptic mouthwash. * Keep flowers away from ... Don’t place cut flowers next to fruit, which gives off gases as it ripens, causing flowers to age faster. Also, keep the flowers away from direct sunlight and try to keep them in a cool place. * Change the water. Keep on top of
water maintenance by changing it at least every 2 to 3 days to maintain good water health. Be sure to re- place the additives each time you change the water.
Plant right to conserve water Metro Creative
Conservation is one of the keys to adopting an eco-friendly
lifestyle.Though some might feel the transition to such a lifestyle might be difficult, it’s often far simpler than it may seem. Conserving water, for instance, can be done in a number of ways. One such way concerns how you treat your landscape. Planting the right way can save a substantial amount of water, which will also save you money on your utility
bills.The follow- ing are a few ways to plant right that won’t re- quire a complete overhaul of your landscape. * Research before you plant anything. Decorating your landscape with the prettiest plant might add to your home’s aesthetic ap- peal, but it’s not always the most practical or eco-friendly decision. Choose plants that will thrive in your local climate so you don’t need to constantly water them just to keep them alive and looking good.
Continued on page 20
18
Lacquered Bamboo Vases in the hot colour trend of the year.
Hwy 97 N (Beside Costco) Kelowna • 868-8261
Home Decor and Gifts
www.raftersokanagan.ca
Village Green Mall Vernon • 542-7740
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