Having fresh cut flowers in your home can add a burst of life and beauty to any space. However, these blooms can fade quickly if not properly cared for. Here are effective tips to significantly extend the life of your cut flowers, ensuring they remain vibrant and fresh-looking for as long as possible.
1. Clean and Prepare Your Vases Properly
Before placing your flowers in a vase, ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned with soap and water to remove any bacteria or fungi which might be lingering on the surfaces. These microorganisms can block the stems and prevent the absorption of water, leading to quicker wilting.
2. Cut the Stems Correctly
Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area allowing the flowers to absorb more water. Make sure to trim the stems every few days to maximize water intake.
3. Remove Leaves Below the Water Line
Any leaves that remain in the water can rot and create bacteria, shortening the life of your flowers. Strip all leaves from the stems that will be below the water level in your vase.
4. Choose the Right Water Temperature
Fill your vase with lukewarm water. For most cut flowers, tepid water is better than cold water as it contains less dissolved air, which can cause blockages in the stems. However, for bulb flowers like daffodils, use cold water.
5. Change the Water Regularly
Replace the water in the vase every two days. Clean the vase with soap during each change and cut the stems again. This prevents the build-up of bacteria and provides fresh nutrients for the flowers.
6. Use Flower Food
Most bouquets come with a packet of flower food. This food provides sugar to help nourish the flowers, a biocide to limit bacteria growth, and an acidifier to help maintain the pH balance of the water. Make sure to follow the instructions on the packet for the best results.
7. Keep Flowers Out of Direct Sunlight and Away from Heat Sources
Avoid placing your flowers near windows where they can receive direct sunlight or near appliances that generate heat. Both can cause the flowers to dehydrate and wilt prematurely.
8. Keep Away from Fruit
Keep your flower arrangements away from fruit bowls. Ripening fruit emits ethylene gas, which can reduce the lifespan of your fresh blooms.
9. Proper Humidity Levels
If your home is dry, particularly during winter, mist the petals of your flowers occasionally. This can help mimic their natural humid environment and keep them fresh.
10. Consider the Type of Flowers
Different types of flowers have varying lifespans and care requirements. For instance, woody stems like hydrangeas need plenty of water, while delicate blooms such as lilies are susceptible to bruising and should be handled gently.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your beautiful bouquet for longer, making the most of your purchase or gift. Fresh cut flowers can bring joy and elegance to your environment, and with a little effort, you can keep them thriving and blooming.
Shop our selection of flowers that we grow on-site.