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Reply	Anonymous says: If this hole is made in the part of the stem that sits in the water, the effect is probably due to the hole allowing any trapped air bubble in the stem to escape. Otherwise, the air bubble interfers with the hydratiion of the flower throught the stem. Some florists recommend cutting the stems under water, thus eliminating air bubbles from the outset.  (no votes) Tags: unanswered, domestic science, plants.
	posted on 2008-03-27 20:34:00 | Report abuse

Reply	Salt Lake Sunflower says: Sounds good to me!  (no votes) Tags: technology, unanswered, domestic science, planet earth, plants.
	posted on 2008-03-27 20:40:00 | Report abuse

Reply	Keith says: When cut flowers are placed in a vase filled with water, the best way to prolongue their life is to ensure that water is indeed making its way all the way to the head. Water is absorbed mostly through where the stem is cut, rather than the sides much like the end of a drinking straw.The big problem is the bacteria that clogs the end of the stem, preventing the water from making its way up. The more common ways of extending this is by providing a larger surface area by cutting the stem at an angle, recutting the stems regularly to remove the clogged ends, or trying to kill the bacteria by placing a penny at the bottom of the vase or adding a drop of bleach to the water. Bleach seems to be the most effective if leaving them unattended for any length of time.I would imagine poking them with a pin would give them another means of absorbing water if its done below the water level. If its done above the water level then the rest of the comments must have a better answer.  (no votes) Tags: technology, unanswered, domestic science, planet earth, plants.
	posted on 2008-03-27 23:40:00 | Report abuse

Reply	Kathy says: The piercing of the stem of a flowerencourages more water to travel up the stem to the site of injury in a natural response to heal the site. Thus, the flower is more hydrated.  (no votes) Tags: technology, unanswered, domestic science, planet earth, plants.
	posted on 2008-03-28 02:56:00 | Report abuse

Reply	biochemist says: My flower-arranging friends pierce the stem at the TOP, just behind the head of the flower - giving rise to the effect described by Kathy  (no votes) Tags: technology, unanswered, domestic science, planet earth, plants.
	posted on 2008-04-04 12:13:00 | Report abuse

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