Winter Flower Bouquets

Amaryllis flowers appear in winter holiday bouquets.

Very few flowers bloom during the winter in cold winter areas. Those that do, such as witch hazel, curl up their petals on cold days. Winter bouquets are often comprised of imported flowers, unless you're lucky enough to live in a warm winter climate and have a flower garden.

Types

Roses, chrysanthemums, statice and carnations are available all winter long because they're grown in places with warm climates, such as Africa and South America, and imported to the United States.

Care

Place flowers immediately in fresh water when you get them home. Remove the leaves from the lower portions of the stem. Inspect the flowers and remove any wilted or damaged petals. Cut 1 inch off the stems and place the flowers in ice water for at least an hour before arranging.

Considerations

Some flowers such as narcissus and amaryllis are available during the holiday season because they bloom in white and red. Other flowers, such as poinsettias, are offered as potted plants and as cut flowers in floral arrangements.

References

• "The Year in Trees: Superb Woody Plants for Four-Season Gardens"; Kim Tripp; 2001
• Cut Flower Exports of Africa: Cut Flower Trade
• Oregon State University: Winter Blooming Flowers