I’m excited for this new addition to MelissaKristyne.com and Silver Creek Cottage called “Tip Tuesday.”
When I was thinking about how I wanted to continue to share on social media and my blog, I thought to myself why keep all of the things I have learned over the years, whether it be a win, or a failure all to myself. If it’s something that could help someone else or make life easier or a little less stressful, I’m gonna share it here.
I’ve been making personal decisions recently to learn more about all of the things I love like, home decor, decorating and gardening.
Because, we always have room to learn, grow and do better in all aspects of life. As I continue to garden, I continue to learn more about the flowers I have planted.
One of those flowers that has taught me something completely new is, the Hollyhock.
When cutting flowers for arrangements I normally cut and drop them directly into a bucket of water but, with Hollyhocks we shouldn’t do that.
When I cut a Hollyhock for an arrangement, I tend to pick a stalk that has about 3 to 4 ish open blooms on it and about 18-24 inches long.
Once you cut your hollyhock, you can let them set out in the open air for a little bit, then next comes the fun part.
Next you’re going to lightly burn the ends. This can be done outside with a torch, outdoor gas grill, or even a candle.
A candle will take a little bit longer but, it is just as effective in burning/preparing your flowers for water.
*Note, when burning be sure to not over burn the ends to ash. You don’t want the ends to fall apart to ash.
Now for the reason why we do this.
Hollyhocks once they are cut, their stalks start oozing out a liquid or a type of sap, which will cause them to stop drinking water, wilt and die off.
This burning method will stop that oozing up to 90% all while allowing the stalk to soak up water. This will have your stalks continuing to open and bloom for up to 10 days.
The blooms that are already open will start to wilt and die off in about 4-5 days. Around day five you will need to re-cut the bottom of the stems and re-burn them. Don’t forget to change your vase water at this point too. If your water starts to get smelly, you can change your water before re-burning your ends.
If I remember, I try to change my flower water every 2-3 days because I don’t use any preserves with hollyhocks. But, if you forget, don’t worry you can change out the water when you re-burn.
If you have been thinking about planting a cottage cut flower garden, or you already have one, Hollyhocks would make a great addition and they make for a beautiful arrangement.
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