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Every wound on the stem of roses leads to major vase contamination and deterioration of the stem bark, and it can even lead to bent-neck. Roses with thorns therefore last longer in the vase compared to those which have been removed. When a flower food is added to the vase water, these differences disappear and the flowers last equally as long. However, the vase water of roses without thorns will become cloudy. The only excuse for removing thorns is to make arranging easier and to protect the hands if no gloves are used.

Without a doubt the fascinating Strelitzia is our most exotic Flower of the Month yet. The flower, commonly known as a bird of paradise flower, is native to South Africa. Nowadays it is grown world-wide. The largest species (Stelitzia nicolai) can grow up to 10 metres tall, while most other species are between 2 to 6 metres. The Strelitzia's flowers are produced in a horizontal inflorescence and emerge from a stout spathe.

We recently conducted a trial to show the benefits of Chrysal Clear Universal on helping boost the size of sunflower blooms. We used 3 vases with 1L of water;

• Vase 1 - water only
• Vase 2 - water and 1 x 1L of Chrysal Clear Universal
• Vase 3 - water and 2 x 1L of Chrysal Clear Universal i.e. double dose

The results are pretty amazing: sunflowers react strongly to flower food when we look at the size of their bloom.

Everyone loves tulips. They have Spring written all over them and are truly a flower that makes people happy. There are many different kinds of tulip with an enormous range of colours and shapes: from single to double, to crown shaped and fringed.

The trick is to combine the various kinds, or mix it up by adding other flowers. The latter can be quite a challenge, since the tulip is well known to grow faster than other flowers in a bouquet.

• Purchase flowers of sufficient maturity and quality.
• Pay attention to the quality of the stem; check for sturdiness, colour and the absence of damage.
• Remove wilted or damaged flowers and flowers with Botrytis.
• Do not spray water on buds and flowers as this increases the chance of fungal growth (Botrytis).
• Do not use metal or antique crystal vases or containers; if you do, use an acid resistant liner.
• Do not use unprotected or contaminated organic binding material.
• Refrain from damaging the stems, this includes the t

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• Always buy the freshest looking plants so as to enjoy them as long as possible
• Position the plant plant in a light place, some plants like direct sunlight, most don’t (see plant label if possible).
• Avoid draughts and keep away from direct heat sources.
• Ensure that there is enough water available for the plant. Use rainwater if possible.
• Soil must be kept moist, prevent excess of water at the bottom of the plant.
• Remove wilted flowers and leaves
• Enjoy your plants!

• Purchase plants of sufficient maturity and quality
• Pay attention to the activity of the plants e.g.