It is important to unpack the flowers immediately. DO NOT REFRIGERATE. Do not expose tropical flowers to cold temperatures. Tropicals are very sensitive to chilling. Temperatures below 14 °C or 57 ºF, can produce irreversible damage to the flower tissues.
Gingers (Alpinias) inflorescences are protected with shredded paper to avoid overpressure and other mechanical forces to spoil flowers during shipping. Carefully remove the paper from the flowers, try to remove the paper and plastic bunch pulling upwards from the flower, never downwards.
Remove the rubber bands used to keep flowers in place during shipping immediately.
To restore plant cells and extended vase life, immerse entire stems in water at room temperature for 10 minutes immediately after cutting one-fourth to inch from each stem. Cutting at an angle will allow maximum water absorption, Clip stems 1/2 an inch and change water every 2 to 3 days. This enables water get back into the stem to hydrate flowers and improve longevity.
Always make sure your flowers have planty of water as tropical flowers typically need water. Misting flowers daily will help to extend vase life and keep a fresh appereance. Change flower water and trim flower stems every few days.
To control flower water odor and prevent bacterial buildup, you may wish to add a few drops of bleach into the water.
Keep flowers out of direct sunlight and breezy areas and maintain temperature above: 57 Fahrenheit Degrees ( 14 º Celcius ). Also avoid placing flowers near fireplaces, stoves and strong drafts.
Flowers may be arranged into one or more bouquets. Place green foliage behind flowers and try to set the flowers at different heights.
Place the heliconia and ginger stems in a big vase with water. Keep in mind that tropical flowers are heavy, so if you put the flower stems with small ones, the flowers can fall down and damage the bracts and inflorescenses.
