May Blooms

With May comes my craving for fresh-cut blooms - and that's perfect timing as it is also time for peony season. Whenever I pass by a flower shop or just M&S pretty little bouquets, I am irresistibly drawn to them. It is what spring does to me - and fortunately, the wish to be surrounded by flowers is easily attainable for a few pounds. It makes me feel very content and at the same time adds this touch of chic to my room. 

Picking some for myself has become one of my favourite spring activities! I generally tend to purchase the same types of flowers and colours: my go-to are tulips, carnations and peonies, preferably white, blush pink and purple. Whilst at the florist's, it is important to check the stems and the general look of the blooms to see if they are not dehydrated; if they look really fresh, they are likely to last a week or more if you take good care of them. 

Incidentally, I have been spoiled by My Little Box in April with their My Little Flower Box, which held a magazine explaining how to increase the life expectancy of fresh-cut blooms, so I thought I'd share them with you. First, what preserves flowers is cold water and fresh air. I like to put them in the sun when I'm there (and when it shines), otherwise when I am away I put them in the shade of my window sill. You can also try these ones out:  

∙ Trim the stem using cut-diagonal cuts before plunging them into water

∙ Add in a small spoon of sugar 

∙ Put a copper coin in the vase

∙ If you don't mind, add in a thimble of vodka!

To be honest I have not tried the vodka one yet but I confirm the first three really work. Once a bunch of purple tulips lasted for two entire weeks before starting to wither. Happy flower-picking :)