Zinnias, Cosmos, Marigolds, Celosia etc: Cut the stem just above a joint. Gently remove excess leaves. Toss the scraps into the flower field. They will "self-compost".
Sunflowers: Visualize the height of your vase, and add at least 6" before you cut the stem. Remove excess leaves. Toss the scraps into the flower field. They will "self-compost".
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ZINNIAS:
Give them the "wiggle" test. Select a zinnia stem that is mature, and has a stiff neck. Mature zinnias show at least part of a gold ring around the center. Gently rustle the stem at the "neck" below the flower head. If it is firm, this will be a good flower. Don't pick zinnias that still have tender stems, they will break easily. COSMOS, MARIGOLDS, other small flowers: Select mature flowers here also, ones with sturdy necks. If the neck of the stem is not stiff when you cut it, it will Not get better. Pick quality flowers. Keep the water in your vase very clean! Add a drop of bleach to the vase water. |
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SUNFLOWERS
Don't only pick the oldest blooms. Younger blooms will last longer. Science Lesson: stare at them until you can see the difference. Keep the water in the vase very clean, and trim the stems every few days. Add a drop of bleach. SUNFLOWER FACTS
Cold temps can slow their maturity and blooming. Excessive rain can stunt their growth. Climate factors affect their height. Sunflowers like it hot!! So do Zinnias! |