Whether you've just received a beautiful bouquet or picked fresh blooms from your garden, it's natural to want them to stay fresh and vibrant for as long as possible. With a few simple techniques and a bit of care, you can extend the life of your flowers and enjoy their beauty for longer. Here's how:
Trim Stems at an Angle
Before placing your flowers in water, trim the stems at a 45-degree angle. This angled cut increases the surface area for water absorption and prevents the stems from resting flat against the bottom of the vase, which can restrict water intake. Re-cut the stems every few days to help maintain optimal hydration.
Use Clean Vases and Fresh Water
Always start with a clean vase to minimise bacterial growth. Fill it with fresh, room-temperature water and change the water every two to three days. Clean water reduces the risk of bacteria that can shorten the lifespan of your flowers.
Remove Foliage Below Waterline
While florists typically remove any foliage that will be submerged in water, it's a good practice to double-check. Leaves left underwater can decay, promoting bacterial growth and shortening the lifespan of your flowers. To maintain clean water and healthy blooms, remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline. This simple step helps keep your arrangement vibrant for longer.
Keep Flowers Cool and Away from Direct Sunlight
Place your flowers in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts. Excessive heat can cause flowers to dehydrate and wilt more quickly.
Avoid Placing Flowers Near Ripening Fruit
Did you know that ripening fruits can accelerate the aging of your flowers? Fruits such as bananas and avocados release ethylene gas, which can hasten the wilting process of flowers. Keep your arrangements away from fruit bowls to prolong their freshness.
Avoid Misting Rose Petals
While misting can benefit some flowers, avoid spraying water directly onto rose petals. Excess moisture can promote the growth of Botrytis cinerea (grey mold), leading to petal spotting and decay.
With these simple tips, your flowers can stay fresh and beautiful, brightening your space for even longer.
