Which of the following prevents the seal of stems to the container bottom?

Re-cutting stems is a crucial practice in floral design that enhances water uptake and prevents stem sealing at the bottom of the container. When stems are cut, they can seal off due to the air entering the cut surface, which creates a barrier that hinders water absorption. By re-cutting the stems before placing them in water, you remove any sealed ends and establish a fresh cut that allows for optimal water intake.

This practice is essential for maintaining the longevity and health of floral arrangements, as it helps to ensure that the flowers receive the necessary hydration. Proper re-cutting involves making a diagonal cut at the base of the stem, increasing the surface area for water uptake, and effectively eliminating any potential seal that could form from air exposure.

While other methods, such as using hot water or cutting stems underwater, have their benefits in certain contexts, they do not directly address the issue of air sealing the cut ends like re-cutting does. Glycerin is typically used for drying flowers and does not play a role in preventing the sealing of the stems to the container bottom when preparing fresh flowers.