To prolong freshness in cut flowers, each day trim them at a 45-degree angle, about 1/2 inch from the bottom of the stems, while holding them underwater to keep air from entering the stems. Some horticulturists suggest adding a commercial flower preservative to the vase, but many home gardeners prefer to add one or more of the following: a crushed aspirin, a tablespoon of lemon juice, a tablespoon of lemon-lime soda, a pinch of sugar, or a few drops of bleach. Theoretically, these ingredients facilitate water transport in the stem, acidify the water for better metabolism, increase energy available to the flower, and hinder the growth of mold and bacteria in the water. Because of the wide variance in commercial water supplies, specific results may vary.…
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Capper's Farmer (Digital) - 1 Issue, Spring 2020