Salver 05

Caring for your Salver 05

Keep this arrangement out of direct sun and away from cooling vents, since the Hydrangea and Forget-me-not are most sensitive to heat and wilt first in dry air. The Roses and Hydrangea drink heavily, so check the water daily and top it up, and because the Hydrangea takes in moisture through its petals, a light misting helps it stay full. Re-cut the woody Hydrangea and Anthurium stems on a slant every couple of days so they keep drawing water, and handle the Orchid and delicate Forget-me-not gently as you do. With clean water and a cool spot, the Anthurium and Orchid reward you long after the softer blooms have had their moment.

A note on your specific blooms

• Anthurium — Anthurium prefers warmth — keep it away from the cold and wipe the leaf gently.
• Chrysanthemum — Chrysanthemum is sensitive to murky water — strip the lower leaves and refresh it often.
• Forget-me-not — Forget-me-nots tire quickly in warmth, so keep the vase cool and out of direct sun and refresh the water often.
• Gerbera — Gerbera has fragile stems — use shallow, clean water and support the heads.
• Hyacinth — Refresh the water often and rinse the stems when you do, as hyacinths release a sticky sap that clouds the water and shortens the life of nearby blooms.
• Hydrangea — Hydrangea takes up water through its petals — mist the heads and keep the vase topped up.
• Orchid — Keep orchid stems in cool, clean water away from ripening fruit, whose ethylene gas makes the blooms drop early.
• Rose — Roses drink heavily — re-cut the stems at an angle every couple of days.