If you are short on time to finish your floral arrangements and your lilies are still closed, here is a simple florist tip you should know. Sometimes, lilies do not open as fast as we need them to, especially for weddings or events. While it is always best to let flowers bloom naturally, there are situations where you need to help the process.
You may never know when you will need to force lilies to open, but understanding how to do it correctly can make a big difference in your final result.
Why Are Lilies Not Opening?
If your lilies are not opening, the problem is usually related to temperature or the environment where they are placed. In most cases, this happens because the conditions are not ideal for lilies to develop properly.
Lilies can slow down if the temperature is too cold, and excessive heat can also affect their development. Another important factor is ethylene gas. Lilies are very sensitive to it.
If your cut lilies are near fruits like apples or bananas, or exposed to cigarette smoke or vehicle exhaust, this can prevent the buds from opening.
Re-cutting the stems also plays an important role. This practice is not only done during preparation, but also helps stimulate water uptake, which encourages the buds to open.
How to Prepare Lilies by Cutting the Stems Properly
Normally, cut stem lilies will open naturally when placed in water. However, when you need results faster, proper stem preparation can make a clear difference. However, if you need them to open faster, you can help by preparing the stems correctly.
- Cut about one inch from the bottom of the stem
- Always cut at a 45-degree angle
This helps open new capillaries inside the stem, allowing the plant to absorb more water and encouraging the flower to open faster.
Use Warm Water to Help Lilies Open
Another effective way to speed up the opening process is using warm water, especially when working with lilies that are still tight.
- Use water between 75°F and 85°F
- Keep the container half full
Warm water helps the lilies hydrate more efficiently. Some florists also cover the lilies loosely with a large plastic bag to create a warmer and slightly more humid environment, which can support faster opening.
How to Care for Lilies After They Open
Once your lilies begin to open, proper care is important to keep them looking fresh for as long as possible. This step is essential if the lilies are used for weddings or events.
- Remove all leaves that stay under the water line
- Change the vase water regularly to slow bacterial growth
Some florists prefer using a floral preservative, but you can also improve water quality by letting tap water sit overnight so the chlorine can evaporate before using it.
Remove the Anthers
As lilies open, their anthers release pollen that can stain petals, clothing, and hands.
Carefully remove the anthers as soon as the flower opens. This simple step helps keep the flowers clean and improves their overall appearance.
Final Notes for Working With Lilies
Knowing how to open lilies faster is a useful skill for florists working with tight timelines. When done correctly, these methods help you achieve fully open lilies without compromising quality.
These techniques are especially helpful for weddings, events, and any situation where timing is critical.
Know more about our lilies here.