How to Cut a Lily of the Nile

Lily of the Nile plants, also known by their scientific name, Agapanthus, produce delicate purple flowers in the summertime heat. The tall stem and striking blossoms combine to make a lovely addition to any cut flower and foliage arrangement. When you cut your Lily of the Nile flowers, you want them to last in a vase for as long as possible. Proper cutting and conditioning ensures that Lily of the Nile flowers continue to attract attention with their beauty long after they are harvested.

Sharp garden shears
Vase

Instructions

- 1
  Cut Lily of the Nile flowers in the early morning hours or later in the evening after the sun goes down. During the day, the heat and intensity of the sun stresses the plant. Cutting them in the middle of the day results in a weak, droopy flower.
- 2
  Wait for the flower buds to start to open before you cut them. The buds open fully after you cut the flowers.
- 3
  Use a pair of sharp garden shears to cut the Lily of the Nile stems. Cut the stem as far down as possible, slicing each stem at a 45-degree angle. You will cut the stem again later to a more manageable length.
- 4
  Fill a vase or large container with warm water and put the cut Lily of the Nile flowers in it. Remove any foliage that is under the water when you put the flowers in the vase. Set the vase in a dark spot overnight.
- 5
  Remove the flowers from the vase and cut the stems again to the desired length. Place the flowers in a vase filled with clean water.

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