Just about anyone under the sun would smile in delight when receiving a bouquet of fresh, vibrant flowers. It’s an experience that brightens any occasion. However, to really enjoy the beauty of your florals, one must know how to keep them looking fresh for as long as possible. Here are some simple tips to know:
- Start with fresh picks
When buying flowers, start with a trusted seller rather than a deli or supermarket. Look for vibrant petals, firm stems and no sign of wilting or browning. Also choose blooms that have not opened up or blossomed, as those are already at the tail end of their shelf life.
If you buy flowers here, you can skip this step!
- Trim the Stems
As soon as you receive your bouquet, trim the stems at an angle or diagonally. This lets the flowers absorb water more efficiently, preventing air bubbles from forming in the stem’s vascular system, which can block water intake.
- Ensure no leaves touch the water
Submerged foliage can decay, promoting bacterial growth in the water, which can shorten the life of your flowers, so be sure to remove these in the water.
- Use the Right Vase
Choose a clean vase that is the appropriate size for your bouquet. A vase that is too small can overcrowd the stems, while a vase that is too large can make it challenging for the flowers to stand upright. Ensure that the vase is thoroughly cleaned to prevent bacterial contamination.
- Fresh Water is Key
Replace the water in the vase every two days or when it starts to look cloudy. Fresh, clean water is essential for prolonging the life of your flowers. It’s also a good idea to rinse the vase and re-trim the stems each time you change the water.
- Flower Food for Days
Flower food packets often come with store-bought bouquets. These packets contain nutrients that can extend the life of your flowers. If you don’t have flower food, you can create a homemade version by adding a few drops of lemon juice and a teaspoon of sugar to the vase water.
- Keep things Cool
Flowers last longer in a cool environment. Avoid placing your bouquet in direct sunlight, near heating vents, or close to appliances that emit heat. Additionally, keeping them away from ripening fruits can prevent the release of ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to age more rapidly.
- Change the Water Regularly
Continuously remove any wilted or dead flowers, as they can release ethylene gas, which can negatively affect the remaining blooms. Changing the water regularly and ensuring it is clean can help prolong the life of your bouquet.
- Rehydrate Wilting Flowers
If some flowers in your bouquet start to wilt prematurely, try this trick: re-cut the stems and submerge them in warm water (not hot) for about 20-30 minutes. This can help rehydrate the flowers and revive their freshness.
- Prune and Rearrange
As your bouquet ages, some flowers may naturally fade faster than others. To extend the bouquet’s overall lifespan, consider pruning the faded blooms and rearranging the remaining fresh ones. This can give your bouquet a second life.
Receiving a bouquet is one of the best little surprises of life –- and with the right care, you can prolong the beauty of your blooms. Follow these tips and secrets to enjoy the fragrance and vibrancy of each petal for longer. Remember that each type of flower have different needs, so it’s essential to know each quality of each species.
When ordering with Sahola Flowers, you are guaranteed the freshness, beauty and design of each arrangement, so do not hesitate to order through us for your next party, occasion or “Just because”!
