The Northeast is prepared for the most frigid Valentine's Day in over a decade, but don't wind up with a frozen heart! Rick Pennypacker of Penny's Flowers in Glenside gave NBC10 some tips for handling flower deliveries amid the Arctic blast:
1. Order for the day before
It's the busiest weekend of the year for florists everywhere, so ordering early will give you the most choices and arrangement options. Order for the day before the cold hits to avoid exposing the flowers to bone-chilling air.
2. Get them inside quick
Most flowers are very climate-sensitive, and while most are shipped in refrigerated containers even the hardier varieties cannot handle freezing conditions. " They can freeze very quickly from the delivery truck to the door," warned Pennypacker. "Get 'em inside and get them in a vase as quick as you can!"
3. Experiment with longer-lasting flowers
For those who might venture beyond the tried-and-true red rose, other longer-lasting blossoms like Gerbera daisies and mini-carnations could provide a nice alternative. Pennypacker also recommended Asiatic and Oriental lilies, which bloom several separate heads on each stem.
4. Flowers need love
To get the most out of your flowers, make sure to keep the vase full of water and prune the stems regularly. Be sure to follow your florist's instructions and use provided "flower food" packets.
5. Tropical flowers are risky
Needless to say, flowers from hot and humid climates like orchids need extra care in the cold. Pennypacker noted that tropical flowers can be extremely delicate, and require extra care even in moderate temperatures. The "Siberian Express" won't mix well with that Paradise flower bouquet!
