Lets Learn: Spring Flowers 101
Spring has finally sprung in Calgary, bringing warm weather, sunshine, and fresh flowers to our gardens once again. After surviving the extra long winter, we are ready for a dose of vitamin D, greenery and colour. Spring brings a beautiful variety of flower options for you to choose from. Whether you're working on your garden or simply looking to bring fresh flowers into your home interior, we've got ideas, tips and the 101's of spring flowers.
PEONIES
Peonies are preferred for their beautiful aesthetic and their fragrance. They grow in well lit areas, that provide air circulation; perfect for your outdoor garden! Peonies come in a variety of shades and hues, and can also be symbolic based on their colour.
PINK: symbolizing romance, making it the perfect fit for wedding bouquets and table arrangements!
WHITE: the white peony symbolizes regret or bashfulness, the perfect flower for an apology.
DEEP RED: In the Japanese and Chinese cultures, deep red peonies stand as a symbol of honour respect and great wealth.
Purchase peony stems at their bud stage for longevity.
Cut 1/2" - 1" off each stem on the diagonal.
Place in room temperature water.
Refill the vase often as peonies drink a lot of water.
Note: a warmer room will yield a faster open rate of the blossom.
RANUNCULUS
Ranunculus are a bulb flower that can be planted in the fall or early spring. Ranging in colour, from red, orange, and yellow to pinks and white, this flower (one of my favourites) is made up of multiple layers of paper thin petals, offering a rich yet soft texture. Plant this charming flower in pots, the ground, or simply purchase from your local flower store and place in the prettiest of vases.
Remove all leaves from the bottom of the stems.
Cut 1" of stem on the diagonal with a sharp knife.
Add a small amount of sugar or flower food to the water.
Change the water daily!
HELLEBORES
Often referred to as the Lenten or Winter Rose, the Hellebores flower grows best in partly shaded areas and can tolerate dry summer soil for periods of time. When planted from seed, they are often the first sign of spring, even with snow covered ground. A welcome sight! From upwards of 17 varieties ranging from white to onyx, this flower is one of the most exquisite and will return year after year. Hellebores are easy to grow, even for the beginner!
Cut each stem.
Sear (place in boiling water for 30 seconds)
Place in a vase.
They are ideal flowers for arrangements as they don't flop.
All parts of the hellebore plant are poisonous, so take care to keep children and pets away.
HYDRANGEAS
Available in a range of colours from blues, whites, pinks, lavender and rose, Hydrangeas bring an old fashioned charm to any garden. The colours of these flowers are determined by the PH levels within the soil and are garden friendly.
Hydrangeas are extremely water sensitive.
Cut under running water and immediately place in plenty of cold water, even add ice!
Replace water often for best results.
If the petals start looking tired, immerse the entire bloom and stem in cold water for 20-40, recut stems and place back in fresh, cold water.
Hydrangeas should last roughly 4-7 days.
VIBURNUM
Viburnum, is a great filler flower, adding fullness and elegance to any bouquet or table arrangement. This snowball shaped flower is available in a variety of colours - even green! and blooms from January to June. The aroma of viburnum is lovely yet strong so be aware of placement within your home.
Cut stems at a 45 degree angle with a sharp knife.
Remove leaves from the lower portion of the stems.
Add flower food to lukewarm water.
Keep viburnum in a cool location.
Keep away from children.
Flowers are a great way to add life, colour, texture, interest and aroma to any room. Treat yourself and add fresh flowers to your home decor. And not to mention Mother's Day is just around the corner...!
Special thanks to Fleurish Flower Shop for the insights and tips!