How to Keep a Flower Bouquet Fresh During Transit and Delivery
Delivering a fresh flower bouquet requires care and attention to maintain its beauty, fragrance, and longevity. Whether you’re sending a bouquet as a gift or transporting flowers for sale, ensuring they stay fresh during transit is crucial. Here’s a Bloom & Song Hong Kong florist guide to keep a flower bouquet fresh during transit and delivery:
1. Preparation Before Transit
a) Choose Fresh Flowers
Start with freshly cut flowers. Choose blooms that are still in the bud stage rather than fully open to ensure they last longer.
b) Cut Stems Properly
Trim the stems at a 45-degree angle, using clean, sharp scissors or a knife. This increases the surface area for water absorption.
c) Hydrate the Flowers
Before packing, place the flowers in water to rehydrate them. Make sure they’ve been soaked for at least a couple of hours.
d) Wrap Stems in Wet Paper Towels
For added moisture during transit, wrap the ends of the stems in damp paper towels or moss. Secure them with plastic wrap or a rubber band to prevent them from drying out.
2. Packing the Bouquet
a) Water Source
Water Tubes: For bouquets with longer transit times, use floral water tubes that hold water and can be slipped over the flower stems.
Water-Soaked Foam: For certain types of arrangements, like in florals with many stems (e.g., roses), soaking a piece of floral foam in water and inserting it into the bouquet can help.
b) Proper Cushioning
Protect the flowers with ample cushioning. You can use tissue paper, bubble wrap, or a protective floral sleeve to ensure the bouquet doesn’t get crushed. The flowers should be packed tightly enough to avoid shifting, but not so tight that they are crushed.
c) Temperature Regulation
Flowers are sensitive to temperature extremes, so consider the following:
Cooler Temperatures: If traveling for several hours, placing an ice pack wrapped in a cloth can help keep the flowers cool without freezing them.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Ensure the bouquet is shielded from direct sunlight and hot temperatures during transit.
3. Transporting the Flowers
a) Secure Packaging
Place the bouquet in a sturdy box or container to prevent any damage from bumps and jolts during transport. Make sure the box is labeled as "fragile" or "perishable" to inform handlers.
b) Maintain Moisture During Delivery
If possible, hire a delivery service that can transport flowers in refrigerated vans or ensure that the bouquet is handled with care. If you’re shipping via courier, select a service that offers express delivery to reduce the time spent in transit.
4. Communication During Delivery
a) Timing is Key
Choose a delivery window that ensures your flowers arrive in the best condition. Try to arrange for delivery within a day to avoid extended exposure to heat or other stressors.
b) Notify the Recipient
If sending a gift bouquet, inform the recipient of the expected delivery time. This will allow them to receive the flowers immediately, ensuring they don’t sit in hot or humid conditions for too long.
5. After Delivery Care
a) Unwrapping the Bouquet
Once the bouquet is received, the recipient should carefully remove the wrapping and any water tubes or foam that are protecting the flowers.
b) Rehydrate the Flowers
The first thing the recipient should do is place the flower stems in clean, cool water to help them continue hydrating. Trim the stems again (at an angle) to improve water absorption.
c) Keep Flowers in a Cool Area
To maximize the lifespan of the bouquet, the flowers should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts.
6. Special Considerations for Longer Distances (International Shipping)
Customs and Regulations: When shipping internationally, check local customs regulations for flowers. Some countries have restrictions on certain types of plants or require phytosanitary certificates.
Long Transit Times: For long shipping durations, it’s advisable to use professional flower delivery services that specialize in long-distance deliveries to ensure the freshness of the flowers is preserved.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your bouquet will remain fresh and beautiful during transit and delivery, making it a delightful gift or a successful shipment. Proper packaging, moisture control, and quick delivery are essential for keeping flowers in optimal condition.
