Dahlia Season - Tips for taking care of the lovely cut flowers

PORTLAND, Ore. - July 16, 2013 - PRLog -- Dahlias are at their peak bloom right now.  The gardens are full of the fabulous flower from July to October.  Available in a rainbow of colors, there is sure to be one that is perfect to bring into your home.  The professionals at Floral Design Institute are ready to help with tips and tricks for dahlia care and handling.

1) Pick your blooms early in the morning before the heat of the day dries out the bloom.

2) Prepare boiling water - yes, they love the boiling hot water.

3) Cut 2 inches from each dahlia stem with a sharp knife and place it in a bucket filled with 3" of the hot water.

4) Let the flowers sit overnight and the water will cool to room temperature.

5)  That's it!  Place your flowers in your favorite vase with fresh water and floral food.  They should last 5-7 days.

For a step by step video tutorial, refer to the Flower School channel.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gR6OsBSu15k



Dahlias can be found at the local Farmers Market, your flower shop, the grocery store and in you pick gardens.  Choose buds that have partially opened.  Too tight and they may never open.  Too full and they will shatter too soon.  You want firm, partially opened heads with a firm stem.  Then, follow the care tips and enjoy!