Floral Care
Fresh flowers are one of life's simplest pleasures. With a little attention and care, their beauty can be enjoyed throughout the days that follow.
Each Thacker & Rue arrangement is created using carefully selected seasonal and specialty blooms. Because every flower is unique, its lifespan and the way it opens, changes, and matures will vary.
We invite you to follow these simple care guidelines to enjoy your flowers at their best.
1. Vase Arrangements
For flowers designed in a vessel.
Refresh the water. Check water levels daily and replenish with fresh, cool water as needed. For arrangements designed in a removable vase, replace the water every one to two days when practical.
Choose a suitable location. Display your arrangement in a cool space, away from direct sunlight, heating vents, fireplaces, and drafts.
Remove fading blooms. As individual flowers naturally reach the end of their lifespan, gently remove them to allow the remaining flowers to continue looking their best.
Preserve the design. Your arrangement has been thoughtfully composed. Avoid unnecessary handling or repositioning of individual stems.
2. Hand-Tied Bouquets
For our signature Atelier Bouquets and seasonal hand-tied flowers.
Prepare a clean vase. Select a vessel large enough to comfortably support your bouquet. Wash thoroughly before filling with fresh, cool water.
Trim the stems. Using clean, sharp floral shears, trim approximately 1–2 cm from the bottom of each stem at an angle before placing your bouquet in water.
Remove submerged foliage. Ensure no leaves sit below the waterline, as submerged foliage encourages bacterial growth.
Refresh regularly. Replace the water every one to two days, cleaning the vase and trimming the stems again when possible.
Keep flowers cool. Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources, and ripening fruit, which can accelerate the ageing process.
Retain the shape. If your bouquet is tied, you may leave the binding in place to preserve its original composition.
3. Roses
A timeless gesture deserving a little extra attention.
Maintain fresh water. Roses are particularly sensitive to bacteria. Keep their vase clean, ensure adequate water levels, and replace the water every one to two days.
Refresh the stems. Recut the stems at an angle with clean, sharp shears when changing the water.
Allow them to open naturally. Roses will gradually unfurl over time, revealing their individual character and beauty.
Understand guard petals. Some roses have slightly discoloured or textured outer petals known as guard petals. These naturally protect the delicate inner bloom and may be gently removed if desired.
Keep away from heat. Display roses in a cool environment away from direct sunlight and warm air.
A Note on the Nature of Fresh Flowers
Flowers are living, delicate materials, and their beauty is inherently fleeting.
Some varieties may last considerably longer than others, even within the same arrangement. Certain blooms will open gradually, while others may reach their peak sooner.
These natural variations are part of what makes fresh floral design so special.
While proper care can help extend the enjoyment of your flowers, their lifespan cannot be guaranteed and will depend on the varieties selected, environmental conditions, and care received.
A Few Additional Considerations
Flower food: If floral preservative is provided, follow the package directions carefully. Use only the recommended amount.
Pets and flowers: Some flowers and foliage can be harmful to household pets. Lilies, in particular, are highly toxic to cats. Keep floral arrangements out of reach of animals and contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect ingestion or exposure.
Delicate surfaces: Certain flowers may release pollen or sap that can stain fabrics and furnishings. Place arrangements on a suitable protective surface and handle with care.
Questions About Your Flowers?
We are always happy to offer guidance on caring for your arrangement or bouquet.
For questions about your flowers, please contact Thacker & Rue Floral Atelier at 780-721-7833.