Cut flowers wilt

Compare the signs below, find the one that matches your plant, then follow the fix.

1. 1Air got into the stem

   Signs

   Roses and gerberas droop a day or two after you bring them home

   What to do

   Cut off 3-5 cm, wrap the bunch tight in newspaper, and soak it in deep water for 2-3 hours

2. 2The water went dirty

   Signs

   Cloudy water, a smell, and slimy stem ends

   What to do

   Change the water and wash the vase every 1-2 days. Strip any leaves that sit in the water.

3. 3Too hot, too much sun

   Signs

   Sitting in the sun, or next to a heater

   What to do

   Move them somewhere cool. At night, somewhere cooler still.

4. 4Fruit nearby

   Signs

   Sitting with fruit

   What to do

   Fruit gives off ethylene, which ages the flowers faster. Keep them apart.