Spring is the perfect time to grow plants and liven up your space with fresh flowers and indoor greenery. If you’re wondering how to help your plants grow strong and healthy, here are some tips and tricks to help them stay fresh for longer.
How to care for flowers in vases
These gorgeous and delicate blossoms can live up to two weeks if taken care of the right way.
Tip #1 Not all flowers require the same type of care
Different plants have different requirements and the same goes for flowers, not all are meant to be kept in the same conditions. For example, baby’s breath does not require flower food. On the other hand, roses need flower food or sugar added to the water to extend their lifespan. For the best results, it’s important to look up the best care tips specifically for the type of flower you are keeping.
Bonus tip! Even though leaves on flowers do help fill up a vase nicely, they are their downfall. Leaves tend to go bad the fastest, and when they rot, they contaminate the water in your vase. It would be harder to take them out after filling your vase so make sure to remove all leaves before putting together your bouquet.
Tip #2 Clean out the vase every 3 days
The water in your vase should be lukewarm (between 100 F to 110 F) because at this temperature flowers are better at absorbing the water molecules. Every three days when the water starts to get murky, change it for fresh, new water. When buying flowers, you usually get a packet of flower food to add to your vase to help feed your flowers. However, you can substitute that for sugar as a DIY replacement. Make sure you use real sugar and not any kind of diet sugar alternatives. Add about 2 tbsp to your vase to help nourish flowers and allow their petals to open.
Tip #3 Don’t be afraid of cutting and pricking your stems
When placing your flowers in a vase, cut the ends of the stem at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area of the stem and allows the flowers to absorb more water. You want to cut the stem every three days with your water change to maximize their longevity. Here’s a bonus tip for tulip lovers. The best way to get these gorgeous spring flowers to perk up is to prick the top of the stem (right underneath at the base of the flower head) with a safety pin. This will help them rise so you have nice and lively tulips instead of droopy ones.
How to care for houseplants
Plants are easy to neglect, but you don’t need to be an expert to help them thrive. These helpful tips are great for new and experienced plant parents. If you are brand new to plants, check out this post for five beginner-friendly plant recommendations.
Tip #1 Give just the right amount of everything
Make sure you are giving your plants the right amount of natural sunlight and water. Plants and flowers need time to grow and require about 3-6 hours of sunlight and shade. However, time required varies and is unique to each plant. Even the amount of water your plants need depends on the season and how they’re grown. Before you buy a plant, inform yourself about the type of care needed for it.
Tip #2 Water your plants with cooled cooking water
This tip is the definition of reduce, reuse, recycle. Reduce the amount of water you use overall and save a bit of money by watering your plants with cooled cooking water. That’s right! If you boiled some eggs or blanched some veggies, don’t dump all that goodie-filled water down the drain. Let it cool completely and use it to water your plants for some extra nutrients.
Tip #3 Fertilize your plants with coffee grounds and food scraps
Fertilizing your plants is just as important as watering them, and the best part is that you don’t have to spend money on store-bought fertilizers. Everything you need can be found in your kitchen. When you’re done drinking your morning pot of joe, don’t throw out your grounds. Coffee grounds are a great source of potassium for your plants, so use them as a DIY fertilizer. Just make sure you are using plain, unflavored coffee grounds, preferably organic for the best results. Other great homemade fertilizers are crushed eggshells, banana peels, and orange peels.
Tip #4 Dust your plants
Leaves on plants can easily collect dust. Gently wiping them with a wet cloth dipped in room temperature water will not only make them look cleaner, but help plants absorb more sunlight.
Follow these simple tips to become a plant care expert and have the best-looking plants on the block. Make sure to check Flipp for the best deals on all of your plant care needs.
