Question
I have a friend whose engagement party I am hosting.  She saw a picture of some phaelenopsis orchids propped in gtall lass cylinders of small rocks, and I want to create these centerpieces for her.  My question, is how do I keep these cut orchids alive?  Would I put some water in the rocks?  or should I just spritz the stems with water?

Answer
Hello Cheryl,

Yes, is the short answer.  (grin)  

For the best results, keep the phalaenopsis flower stems on the plant until an hour before the engagement party.  Have the tall glass cylinder vase with rocks, marbles or whatever you want in them on the table(s) and fill the vases half full with water.  You can add a small amount of 7-Up soda to the water if you wish, it will help keep the flowers fresh longer, but phal flowers can stay fresh for days with just plain water.  

Depending upon how long the stems are will determine how tall a vase to use.  When it is time to cut the stems, cut them about an inch or two from the bottom then immediately place the cut stem into water.  

Spritzing is probably not necessary for the party but it can be done the next day to help keep them fresher.  

Lastly, I've assumed that you would be buying living phalaenopsis plants but if you buy just the flower stems, just before placing the stem into the water, cut about two inches off the bottom of the stem.  

Hope this helped.  I know your friend will be very happy with your arrangements.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.