Handling Cut Flowers Perennials for Cut Flowers

Belamcanda chinensis -Blackberry Lily Cutting in the Garden

Timing is important when cutting. Plants contain the most vigor in the morning. Flowers in loose bud are ideal to harvest because their "show" is yet to begin. Dahlias, zinnias and marigolds will not continue to bloom if cut when the bud is very tight. The longer the stem the better when cutting. Exclusions to this rule include bulbs which need the green stems to photosynthesize and store energy for the dormant season. Leave approximately one third of the stem on bulbs. Strip the bottom third of all stems to eliminate transpiring leaves and prickly thorns. Submerge the stems in tepid water as soon as they are wounded. Dividing small stems from large stems helps organize the material for further work.

Conditioning Stems

Once all the gathering in the garden is finished, the stems will need to be re-cut under tepid water before arranging to eliminate any air pockets. Preservatives and color can be added during this process.

Woody stems and roses and should be re-cut at a 45 degree angle to increase the surface area. Rose stems can be slit up the middle about one inch to prevent a sealed end and increase water absorption capacity. Woody stems ends can be smashed with a hammer on the tips (2 inches) to prevent sealing.

Sappy, soft and stems that wilt can be seared under boiling water for about twenty seconds. Only sear the bottom portion of the stems. Searing will seal the end of the stems to prevent water form escaping. Species that can be seared include euphorbias, hellebores, hollyhocks, peonies, poppies and roses.

Treating Cut Flowers

Direct sunlight and high temperatures will decrease the longevity of the cut stems. Nutrients added to the water will help extend the life of the cut flowers. Packets are available in stores for purchase or a solution can be made at home with a few drops of bleach and a teaspoon of sugar. This boosts the acidity of the water and helps prevent bacteria. Check the water every day or so and replace all of the water if necessary.

Iris, Siberian Orville Fay

Cutting Flowers

http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/hortnews/1992/7-22-1992/cutflow.html

Conditioning Cut Flowers

http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/hortnews/1993/8-11-1993/cut.html

Field Grown Annuals for Cut Flowers http://www.umass.edu/umext/programs/agro/floriculture/floral_facts/anncut.htm

Insect Problems in Commercial Production of Outdoor Cut Flowers http://www.umass.edu/umext/programs/agro/floriculture/floral_facts/cutpest.htm