Name a common preservative used in floral arrangements.

Sugar in water or a commercial floral preservative like Floralife is commonly used in floral arrangements because it serves multiple important functions. Firstly, sugar acts as a food source for cut flowers, providing them with energy and extending their lifespan by promoting hydration and nutrient uptake. In addition, commercial floral preservatives contain biocides and acidifiers that help prevent bacterial growth in the water, which can clog stems and impede water absorption. This combination of benefits helps flowers stay fresh and vibrant for a longer period, making sugar and products like Floralife essential for maintaining the quality of floral arrangements.

Choosing alternatives like table salt, vinegar, or baking soda may not provide the same benefits and could even harm the flowers by altering the pH or introducing substances that are harmful to their health.