Fresh Cut Flowers and Plant Care By J. Raymond Kessler, Extension Horticulturist

Many people enjoy bringing fresh cut flowers and plants indoors to brighten up a room and add a touch of spring to the home. Although different fresh flowers and plants require different levels of attention, the best way to enjoy the beauty of each arrangement longer is with proper care.

Here is a common plant and tips on how to properly care for this budding plant.

Common Name: Easter lily

Bloom Season: Early to mid spring. These lilies are available before the Easter season.

Plant Selection: Check the following when choosing an Easter lily:

• Dark green foliage all the way to the base of the plant.
• Buds in the puffy white stage. This means that they are showing color (puffy white) but not fully open. Flowers will open relatively quickly in the warmth of the home if they are purchased in the puffy white stage.
• A plant that can support its own weight.
• A plant without disease or insect problems, such as disfigured or discolored new or older leaves, shriveled or yellowed leaves or damaged stems, leaves or flowers.

Plant Care: You should be able to enjoy an Easter lily for two to three weeks by following these tips.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight (a possible light filter could be a curtain) is recommended to keep the Easter lily alive, because direct sunlight will case the blooms to fade.
• Water: Only as the plant needs it, when the potting mix becomes visibly dry.
• Fertilizer: Not needed on lilies.
• Temperature: Lilies will survive best at a minimum temperature of 60 degrees and a maximum temperature of 80 degrees.
• Maintenance: Remove all dead leaves and faded blooms and keep the foliage dry to help prevent disease and insect problems.
• Usage: The Easter lily cannot be grown outside in Alabama. Depending on the variety and proper care of the Easter lily it can reach a height of two to four feet tall.

Click here for copy of the complete article with helpful tips to help you better select and care for your fresh cut flowers and plants. Or you can contact your county Extension office for more information.

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