How to Cut Dwarf Sunflowers

Big, cheerful dwarf sunflowers last a long time in the vase and make a bold statement in indoor arrangements. Use them alone, or combine them with other big late summer and fall flowers such as dahlias and chrysanthemums. Viburnum berries add a rustic touch. Most varieties of sunflowers shed lots of pollen which ends up on table tops and floors and leaves stains on upholstery. Select pollenless varieties, such as Sunrich, Moonbright and Starbright, to avoid the mess.

Container of water
Sharp knife or pruners
Vase
Floral preservative

Instructions

- 1
  Cut dwarf sunflowers early in the morning before the sun has a chance to dry them. Cut the stems at an angle and remove the lower leaves that would otherwise be underwater in the vase.
- 2
  Place the cut sunflowers in a container of water immediately. Place the container in a cool, shady location and allow the flowers to soak for several hours or overnight.
- 3
  Recut the stems an inch or two above the first cut while holding them underwater. Use a sharp knife or pruners to make a vertical, 1-inch cut that splits the end of the stem.
- 4
  Prepare the floral preservative according to the package instructions and fill the vase. Place the sunflowers in the vase.

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