As a professional florist, I’ve seen too many beautiful arrangements fade too soon simply because they weren’t cared for properly. But don’t worry! With these expert tips, you can keep your flowers fresh and vibrant for days—or even weeks!
1. Start with a Clean Vase
A dirty vase can hold bacteria that shortens the lifespan of your flowers. Before arranging your bouquet:
• Wash your vase with warm, soapy water to remove any residue.
• Rinse with a vinegar and water solution (1 part vinegar to 10 parts water) to eliminate bacteria.
A clean vase means your flowers will stay fresh longer!
2. Trim the Stems at an Angle
Flowers drink water through their stems, but if the ends dry out or get clogged, they’ll wilt faster.
• Use sharp scissors or floral shears to cut stems at a 45-degree angle.
• Trim about 1 inch off the bottom before placing them in water.
• Re-trim every 2-3 days to keep the stems fresh.
Best Flowers from Our Shop That Benefit from Fresh Cuts: Roses, lilies, hydrangeas, and peonies.
3. Remove Extra Leaves
Leaves that sit below the waterline will rot and create bacteria, which shortens the life of your flowers.
• Remove any excess leaves from the lower part of the stems before placing them in the vase.
• This keeps the water clean and prevents bad odors!
Perfect for: Tulips, sunflowers, and daisies, which tend to have lots of greenery.
4. Use Fresh, Cool Water (and Change It Often!)
Your flowers need clean water to thrive. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for bacteria, so:
• Use cool, fresh water when arranging your bouquet.
• Change the water every two days to prevent bacterial growth.
• Rinse the stems before placing them back in fresh water.
Extra Tip: If your flowers start wilting, try placing them in lukewarm water for an hour to help rehydrate them.
5. Feed Your Flowers
Most bouquets from Tara Florist come with a flower food packet, but if you run out, you can make your own!
DIY Flower Food Recipe:
• 1 teaspoon sugar (feeds the flowers)
• 1 teaspoon bleach (prevents bacteria)
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar (balances water pH)
• 1 quart of water
Mix well and add to your vase. This simple trick keeps flowers fresh longer!
6. Keep Flowers Away from Heat & Sunlight
While flowers need sunlight to grow, cut flowers last longer in cooler environments.
• Keep your arrangement away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and electronics that generate heat.
• Store your flowers in a cool spot overnight (or even in the fridge for extra longevity!).
Great for: Hydrangeas and roses, which thrive in cooler conditions.
7. Revive Wilting Flowers with This Trick
If your flowers start to wilt, don’t toss them yet!
• For roses and hydrangeas: Submerge the entire flower (stem, leaves, and bloom) in a bowl of warm water for 30 minutes.
• For tulips and daisies: Trim the stems and wrap them tightly in newspaper before placing them in fresh water.
You’ll be amazed at how quickly they perk up!
By following these care tips, you can extend the life of your fresh flowers and enjoy their beauty for days—sometimes even weeks!
Florally Yours,
TFG
