Alstroemerias, often called the 'Inca Lily', are full of surprises. At first glance, a stem may seem simple, but once the buds open, they reveal layers of color, texture, and detail that are impossible to ignore. The real trick, though, is keeping them looking fresh for as long as possible. And that’s where proper care comes in—not just at home, but at every stage of their journey. For this and every type of flower, Chrysal is your best ally for tips and tricks that make your favorite flowers last longer.
The Secret Life of Alstroemerias - Care That Really Works for Growers
Chrysal has been studying what makes these flowers last longer for decades, and growers like Flores de los Andes in Colombia know that following specific steps is what separates a short-lived bunch from one that can brighten up a space for weeks. He'll be telling you in detail how he likes to care for them later, but for now, let's go into the importance of Alstroemerias during the post-harvest process.
The journey of an Alstroemeria begins right after it’s harvested. If the right care isn’t applied immediately, the flower never really reaches its full potential. This is why post-harvest treatments are essential. Chrysal developed specialized solutions like Chrysal BVB and AVB that keep the leaves from yellowing too quickly and protect the petals from ethylene gas, an invisible culprit that makes them drop before their time. It prevents the dropping of buds and premature aging of the flowers.
Even the air quality in storage matters because if you don’t have good ventilation where flowers are packed, ethylene builds up and the flowers lose their life faster. It’s the kind of detail you might overlook, but it makes all the difference.
How Florists Keep Stems Fresh and Opening
But what about for florists? Every type of tip and care depends on what you're using the flower for. Once Alstroemerias make their way into the hands of florists, the care continues. Florists often recut stems so the flowers can drink water properly—crushed or dull cuts only slow things down. Instead of simply placing them in plain water, professionals rely on Chrysal Professional 2, which gives the buds energy to open gradually while keeping them strong. The idea is to let customers take home flowers that still have plenty of life ahead of them, not ones that are already at their peak.
The Simple Rules for Home Care
At home, the routine for consumers becomes even simpler but no less important. A clean vase filled with fresh water and the right flower food is the foundation. For Alstroemerias in particular, Chrysal has created formulas designed specifically for them, ensuring their leaves stay green and the petals open beautifully. Water should be refreshed every couple of days, and it’s smart to remove any leaves that fall below the waterline since they decay quickly and spoil the vase.
With these tips and tricks, you can't go wrong with the care your Alstroemerias need.
