How to Buy Sunflowers: A Guide for Flower Lovers
Sunflowers are bright, cheerful and versatile flowers that can brighten up any space. Whether you want to buy them for yourself or as a gift, there are some things you should know before you head to the florist or the supermarket. Here are some tips on how to buy sunflowers that will last longer and look better.
Choose the Right Variety
There are many different types of sunflowers, each with their own characteristics and colors. Some of the most common ones are:
- Giant sunflowers: These are the ones that can grow up to 12 feet tall and have huge yellow blooms. They are great for creating a dramatic effect in your garden or as a centerpiece in a large vase.
- Dwarf sunflowers: These are smaller versions of the giant sunflowers, usually growing between 1 and 3 feet tall. They have smaller but more numerous flowers that come in various shades of yellow, orange and red. They are ideal for smaller spaces and containers.
- Pollenless sunflowers: These are sunflowers that have been bred to produce less or no pollen, which makes them less messy and more suitable for people with allergies. They also tend to last longer as cut flowers.
- Colored sunflowers: These are sunflowers that have been dyed or genetically modified to produce different colors, such as white, pink, purple and green. They can add a splash of color and fun to your bouquet or arrangement.
Check the Quality
When you buy sunflowers, you want to make sure they are fresh and healthy. Here are some signs of good quality sunflowers:
- The stems are firm and green, not limp or brown.
- The leaves are green and crisp, not wilted or yellow.
- The petals are tightly closed or slightly open, not fully open or drooping.
- The centers are dark and fuzzy, not brown or moldy.
Care for Your Sunflowers
Once you have bought your sunflowers, you want to keep them looking beautiful for as long as possible. Here are some tips on how to care for your sunflowers:
- Cut the stems at an angle about an inch from the bottom using a sharp knife or scissors. This will help them absorb water better.
- Remove any leaves that will be submerged in water. This will prevent bacterial growth and rotting.
- Fill a vase with clean water and add some flower food or a teaspoon of sugar. This will provide nutrients and prevent bacteria from multiplying.
- Change the water every two or three days and recut the stems if needed. This will keep your sunflowers hydrated and fresh.
- Keep your sunflowers away from direct sunlight, heat sources and drafts. This will prevent them from wilting and fading.
With these tips, you can enjoy your sunflowers for up to two weeks or even longer. Sunflowers are a wonderful way to brighten up your home or someone else’s day. Happy shopping!