Select flowers that send the right message.

If winter comes, can spring be far behind? Here’s what to check for when you go petal-picking next time.

The best way to check for fresh flowers is to have a good look at their cut stems. If the end of the stem is curling in, is dry or has split, it is probably more than four days old and won’t stay fresh for longer than two days.

Leaves are the next best give-away. Steer clear of flowers with leaves that are turning yellow or blotchy.

Since roses are the most popular buy — a dozen long-stemmed roses still say it all — the checkpoints are roses that stick straight up from the stem with no angle, dark green leaves and spot- and blotch-free petals. Also, don’t go for a bunch that has very tightly-closed buds because they may not open.

The bouquets on display at the flower shop-window may be great to look at but won’t stay fresh for long if they have been exposed to sunlight and pollution all day. Ask the florist to make your bouquet from flowers that are inside the shop, and sufficiently immersed in water.

For flowers like roses or lilies, choose a bunch that has the fewest buds open because they will open in the morning. Avoid orchids with a dried, slightly translucent appearance. The petals of carnations must not have any brown blemishes or be curling inwards.

While local markets score with their competitive prices, exotic flower shops offer you the best in terms of packaging and variety. Ferns and Petals (City Centre) and Purple Rain (Loudon Street) are good flower stops. A host of florists in New Market are the best if budget is a consideration; and they are open on Sundays.


t2