Recommendations for flowers with soft stems caring

Flowers with soft stems – grace that requires tenderness.

Gerberas, alstroemerias, callas are flowers whose stems do not have a rigid frame, but they have enormous grace and sensitivity to the environment. Their delicate beauty is a short-lived moment if the right conditions are not created. Soft stems quickly lose elasticity without water, are brittle at the slightest pressure and are easily susceptible to bacteria. Therefore, caring for these flowers is not just a recommendation, but a prerequisite to preserve their grace for as long as possible.

General care for flowers with soft stems: callas, gerberas, alstroemerias

I. Flowers need moisture, like the thirsty earth after rain.

After buying flowers from callas, gerberas or alstroemerias, do not delay with water – it is advisable to put the flowers in a vase no later than 30 minutes later. Soft stems are particularly sensitive to moisture loss and quickly lose elasticity.
Callas are particularly vulnerable — in the absence of water, they break under the weight of their own flower.

II. Fresh water and a clean vase are the basis of care.

A clean vase and fresh water at room temperature are the first things to prepare.
• Callas: water is needed only 1/10 of the stem height — too much liquid can cause the flower to break under its own weight.
• Gerberas and alstroemerias: the water level should be about 1/4 of the stem to ensure sufficient moisture without the risk of rotting.

Why is this important?

Excess water for soft stems is a path to rotting. Due to their thin structure, they easily absorb moisture, but are not able to “hold” it, like stiffer plants.

III. Correct cut is the key to the freshness of flowers.

Before placing the flowers in water, trim the stems by 2–3 cm with a sharp knife or pruners:
• Callas – make a straight cut with a sharp knife.
• Gerberas and alstroemeria – make the cut at a 45° angle to increase the area for moisture absorption.

Be sure to trim immediately before placing the flowers in water so that no more than a minute elapses between the fresh cut and the water – this will help avoid the formation of an air plug inside the stem, which will prevent the flowers from absorbing moisture. Trim the stems immediately before immersing them in water, otherwise the capillaries will be clogged with air and the flowers will not be able to “drink”.

IV. Daily care is the key to lasting beauty.

Soft-stemmed flowers need special attention every day:
• change the water - daily,
• wash the vase,
• renew the cuts.

This prevents the growth of bacteria and helps flowers stay fresh longer.

V. Fallen leaves in water - a hidden threat to flowers

Leaves that fall into water decompose quickly and create a breeding ground for bacteria. This is especially dangerous for flowers with soft stems, because the structure of the stem allows bacteria to quickly penetrate deep into it. Always remove fallen leaves and leave only the necessary amount on the top of the flower.

VI. The secret to freshness is proper feeding

Gerberas and alstroemerias respond well to the use of bouquet preservatives.
• Add preservative to the water with each change.
• Instead of changing the water daily, you can change it every 3-4 days if you add the preservative according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not exceed the dosage - this can soften the stems.

VII. Avoid sudden changes in temperature.

Soft stems are very sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
• Keep flowers away from sources of heat and cold that affect their freshness – batteries, air conditioners, drafts and direct sunlight.
• The optimal temperature for storing flowers is from +5 to +20°C.
• Flowers with soft stems are particularly sensitive to overheating – place them in a cool, stable place.

Please note:

• Sharp temperature changes significantly reduce the lifespan of flowers, especially in winter. At sub-zero temperatures, flowers require mandatory protection to avoid hypothermia. Before going outside, the bouquet should be carefully wrapped in paper or cellophane, which will help to partially retain heat and protect it from frosty air. Even when packaged, it is not recommended to leave flowers in the cold for more than 15 minutes, as low temperatures cause the petals and stems to lose their elasticity. Supercooled flowers quickly wilt and cannot be resuscitated, so it is important to minimize the time the bouquet is in the cold during the cold season.
• If the flowers will be left without water for a long time during transportation, it is recommended to use aquaboxes or special moisture-retaining agents ("diapers" for flowers) to prevent dehydration of the stems. This is especially important in hot and frosty weather, when plants lose moisture faster. If you plan to give a bouquet in a place where it is not possible to quickly put it in a vase (for example, in a restaurant or at an event), the best choice would be an arrangement in a floral oasis (sponge). This option allows you to preserve the freshness of the flowers without having to immediately look for a container for water.
• Do not place the bouquet next to fruits - they emit ethylene, which accelerates the flowering and wilting of flowers.
• These care recommendations are approximate and depend on storage conditions.
• The Camellia company is not responsible for the transportation and storage of flowers after they are transferred to the consumer in case of their spoilage.

Flowers give us special moments - from the first glance at a delicate bud to the last light aroma that remains in the air. Careful care will help extend their life, preserve the brightness of the colors and the purity of the petals.

“Create moments” of beauty that do not fade, but last longer - together with your favorite flowers.

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