By Emma Bradford, FloraLife UK
As the nights begin to draw in and the leaves start to turn color, we are reminded that Halloween will soon be upon us, and we should begin planning our festive flowers.
Although Halloween is traditionally celebrated in shades of orange and black, today’s florists are not constrained to this color pallet as beautifully dramatic Halloween arrangements now include shades of purple, bright pink, red, blue, or white.
One of the best flowers to deliver these pops of colorful drama are anemones. With their luscious black centers surrounded by petals saturated in color, they will add sophistication to any Halloween arrangement.
Anemones are also known as ‘Windflowers’ making them even more fitting should your Halloween fall on a dark and stormy night. But no matter the weather, ensure your night is filled with treats, and no tricks, by including these beauties in your spooky festivities.
CARE AND HANDLING INFORMATION
Purchasing
• Anemones can be ethylene sensitive, leading to petal shatter and a shortened vase life if left untreated. Insist that your supplier treats with an ethylene action inhibitor such as EthylBloc™ or FloraLife® EthylGuard at farm level to protect against exposure. Do not store or display near ripening produce or products that produce ethylene.
• Choose strong stems with flowers closed or just beginning to open, although be aware that flowers will close naturally when in cold and dark conditions.
• Inspect for bruising and botrytis.
Shipping & Storage
• Shipping and storage temperatures should be 34 – 38° F (1-3C).
• Stems should be shipped and packaged to minimize damage in transit.
• Anemones are susceptible to stem bending and may benefit from upright shipment.
Re-hydration at Store Level and Storage
• Start processing with a clean bucket, sanitized with FloraLife® D.C.D.® Cleaner.
• If received dry packed, conditioning of stem ends is recommended to prevent blockage and promote uptake. Cut approximately 1” or more off stems. Use clean, sanitized clippers or knife, and treat with FloraLife® Quick Dip.
• Place flowers in a flower food holding solution such as FloraLife® Express 200. Do not put flowers directly in metal/galvanized buckets. Use clean, high-quality water that has not been treated with a water softener as the salt levels can be damaging to flowers.
• Store in a cooler at 34 – 38° F (1-3C).
• Allow minimum 2 hours to hydrate placing buckets in an area with good airflow.
• Always remember FIFO (first in/first out) when rotating Anemones or any other flowers.
Vase Care
• Remove any leaves that might be below the vase solution.
• If received dry, cut approximately 1” or more off stems. Use clean, sanitized clippers or knife, and treat with FloraLife® Quick Dip.
• Immediately place flowers in properly dosed vase solutions (Flower Food and water) containing FloraLife Crystal Clear® (the perfect solution for clear vases), or FloraLife® Express 300 (the no-cut premium solution). If available in your region, use FloraLife® Bulb Food Clear 300.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and fruits.
Common Defects
• Petal shatter – associated with ethylene sensitivity.
• Relatively short vase life (3-8 days).
• Leaf yellowing – may benefit from bulb specific flower foods.
• Stem bending – may benefit from upright shipping.
• Prone to water stress – dry shipped flowers should be processed immediately into holding solution.
• Prone to mechanical damage – Stems and blooms are very delicate. Bunches should be secure but not strapped too tightly or stems will bruise or break. Do not over pack boxes to allow good airflow.
Special Considerations
• Other causes for poor vase life can be cut stage, product age (stored too long) or storing dry for long periods.
• Opening speed is fast.
• Anemones can be mixed with most other flowers without any negative or harmful effects. However, do not mix daffodils in the same vase.
• Due to their shorter vase life, pair with flowers that have similar characteristics. If designing in foam use Oasis® Maxlife foam to reduce potential burn. Always cut at a sharp angle before inserting into foam. Create designs as close to event as possible. Check water levels or foam periodically to be sure flowers stay hydrated.
• Sap may irritate skin, be conscientious when designing with Anemones and treat any irritation immediately.
For more information, click here:
Troubleshooting Anemone
https://floralife.com/article/anemone-troubleshooting/
Anemone Library
https://floralife.com/flowers/anemone/
Library for retailers
https://floralife.com/flower-library-for-retailers/
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