When you order wholesale flowers for an event, proper storage ensures that they arrive in perfect condition and have a long vase life. By preparing the flowers properly, you can keep them fresh until your big event. Here’s how to care for your bulk flowers after they’re delivered, so they’ll look beautiful for your clients or your guests.
Proper Preparation is Key
Before you start storing your flowers, make sure you’re using clean buckets. Chemical residues, dirt, and leftover flower bits can introduce harmful bacteria and shorten the lifespan of your flowers, so it’s critical to remove any contaminants.
To clean your buckets, wash them thoroughly with dish soap and warm water. Simply rinse the buckets well after washing and dry them before filling them with fresh water for your flowers. If you’re using metal buckets, it’s best to line them with plastic or another liner as metal can react with floral preservatives.
Cutting Stems for Maximum Hydration
When your wholesale flowers arrive, cut the stems right away diagonally under warm water. This helps prevent bacteria build-up by forcing open the bottom of the stem and allowing water to flow more easily into the flower.Be sure to use sharp floral shears or a knife to avoid damaging the stems, which could hinder water intake.As a rule of thumb, re-cut the stems every two days to maintain freshness.
Remove Leaves and Foliage That Touch Water
When storing flowers, it’s important to get rid of any foliage or leaves that could come in contact with water. Foliage that deteriorates in water releases bacteria that can block the flower’s stems. This reduces their ability to absorb water and shortens their vase life.By keeping the water clean and free from decomposing foliage, you help your flowers stay hydrated and last longer.
Keep Water Fresh and Add Floral Preservative
Each time you cut the stems, make sure to change the water. As flowers consume the oxygen in the water, it becomes less effective at hydrating the flowers. New water is better oxygenated which helps your flowers thrive.
Adding a floral preservative to the water can also be beneficial as it contains nutrients and antimicrobial agents that promote hydration and prevent bacterial growth. Change the water and add more preservatives each time you cut the stems.
Final Tips for Storing Wholesale Flowers
- Keep flowers in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to use them. Excessive heat and sunlight can accelerate wilting and decay.
- Avoid overcrowding the buckets. Flowers need space to breathe, and crowded conditions can lead to early deterioration.
- Regularly check for any wilting or damaged blooms and remove them to prevent them from affecting the rest of the arrangement.
Buy Bulk Flowers and Wholesale Floral Supplies with Floral Express!
When it’s time to purchase your bulk flowers and supplies, turn to Floral Express. We cater to smaller businesses with flexible weekly orders and a low shipping minimum of $250, so you can access wholesale pricing. Our selection includes everything from fresh-cut flowers to floral foam, vases, and ribbons—all at competitive prices. Contact us today to place your order and get the best deals on wholesale flowers and floral supplies!
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