To make cut sweet peas last longer, cut them when the first flower on the stem is fully open and immediately place them in water with flower food. Here's a more detailed guide:
Harvesting for Longevity
- Timing is key: Harvest sweet peas in the cool of the morning or evening. Avoid harvesting during the heat of the day, as this can stress the flowers.
- Choose the right blooms: Select stems where the bottom flower is fully open and the rest of the buds are showing good color.
- Clean cut: Use sharp, clean scissors or floral snips to make a clean cut at an angle. This maximizes water uptake.
Immediate Post-Harvest Care
- Immediate hydration: Plunge the cut stems into a bucket of cool, clean water as soon as you cut them. This prevents air from entering the stems and blocking water flow.
- Flower food is essential: Add commercial flower food to the water according to the package instructions. Flower food contains nutrients and a biocide to keep the water clean and inhibit bacterial growth, which significantly extends vase life. If you don't have flower food, a homemade solution of a teaspoon of sugar and a drop of bleach per quart of water can help.
Vase Care for Extended Life
- Choose the right vase: Select a clean vase of an appropriate size for your sweet peas.
- Water quality matters: Use cool, clean water, preferably filtered or distilled.
- Re-cut stems regularly: Every 1-2 days, re-cut the stems at an angle to remove any blockage and promote water uptake.
- Change the water frequently: Change the vase water every 1-2 days and add fresh flower food.
- Remove fading flowers: As flowers fade, remove them from the stem to encourage the remaining buds to open and prevent them from rotting and contaminating the water.
- Ideal environment: Keep your sweet peas in a cool location away from direct sunlight, drafts, and heat sources. Avoid placing them near ripening fruit, as ethylene gas emitted by fruit can shorten their lifespan.
By following these steps, you can significantly extend the vase life of your cut sweet peas and enjoy their beauty for longer.
