A Trip to the Flower Farm Near Me

Recently, my family visited Texas Tulips, a fresh flower farm near me, just north of Dallas, Texas. It’s pretty humbling to walk through a field of thousands of tulips. The vastness of beauty in God’s work can make you feel small. However, in that same breath, you find the understanding that you, too, are His creation.

We had the opportunity to pick our own tulips among rows and rows of different varieties. Each flower that landed in our picking crate was carefully chosen by one of my children, Adam and Sarah. Therefore, I wanted the flowers and memories from this day to last as long as possible.

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Bloom Where You Are Planted

My grandmother has always instilled in me to ‘bloom where you are planted.’ In order to do that, it’s key to be present, look for opportunities, and make the most of each day. In addition, find joy and gratitude in the little things. It’s easier to do on those special days, the times when you can be the fun mom, but not so easy to do during the challenging times. However, if you can find the silver lining on the hard days, you will grow a deeper appreciation for the great days. 

Being outdoors in the fresh air always reminds me to be fully present in the moment. No phones, no tablets. Just the warm sunshine, nature, and the occasional sounds of my children at play. Whether it is a visit to the flower farm or the park for just a few minutes after school, these are the days that I hope my children will remember.

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How to Keep Flowers Looking Fresh for Longer

After visiting a flower farm near me, I had plenty of fresh tulips to brighten my home. Here are a few ways that you can ensure your flowers look fresh for longer.

1. Remove any damaged or blemished petals and leaves, new buds or leaves that fall below the water line of the container. 
2. Cut stems at a diagonal angle to maximize their water intake.
3. Dip cut stem in alum found in the spice aisle at the grocery store.
4. Use floral tape or chicken wire to create a grid across the top of a vase to provide support to the stems. 
5. Add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar and sugar or flower food into the bottom of the vase.
6. Change the water in the vase every two days; recut stems if necessary. 
7. Display flowers out of direct sunlight or air vents.
8. Place flowers in refrigerator overnight to prolong freshness.

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Flower Arranging Tips

When arranging flowers, be sure to follow my tips to keep flowers fresh for longer. This will ensure your bouquet stays vibrant for as long as possible.

For a full flower arrangement, start with greenery to add texture. Then, add the focal flowers. Lastly, fill with additional flowers of varying color, size or shape.

Cut flowers at slightly different heights to ensure the flowers look organic. Think of a dome shape. So, place taller stems near the center and shorter stems near the outside of the vase.

When combining two different flowers with a similar color to create a subtle look, vary the shape of the blooms.

Be creative with your containers. For example, place flowers in a glass jar then sit it in planters, baskets or wood crates. You can find some in the shop, From: Susie. Here are a few more unique ways to display your flowers.

• Canning jar
• Vintage glass bottle
• Enamel bucket
• Galvanized watering cans
• Vintage Ice Cream
• Pitcher
• Mason jars
• Gin bottles or bud vases for single stems

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“Flower Farm near Me”

If you think cutting your own flowers sounds interesting, just google ‘flower farm near me.’ You will be surprised by how many ‘pick your own’ flower farms are within a couple of hours drive. It makes for a fun day trip. Plus, you can capture lots of great photos and bring home fresh flowers, too.

For more things to do this summer, check out my Summer Bucket List! Or, learn how to press flowers with a DIY flower press, here.