Don’t you just hate when gorgeous bouquets die after a few days?
Fresh-cut flowers should last longer. Right?
Luckily, they can with just a few simple tricks.
So why do bouquets die so fast? And more importantly… how can you prevent it?
Let’s dive in!
The Average Life Expectancy Of Fresh Cut Flowers Is Shockingly Low
Most cut flowers only last around one week to two weeks when taken care of properly.
With these tips, you’ll have blooms that can last three weeks or more.
What you’re about to learn:
- How quickly bouquets die
- One simple hack to keep water fresh
- 6 Simple Steps to Extend The Life of Cut Flowers
- The Longest Lasting Flowers
Why Do Bouquets Die So Quickly?
Flowers die because of bacteria.
Once stems are cut they are exposed to microorganisms. These microorganisms grow rapidly in the water of your vase and clog up the stems so water cannot reach the flower petals.
Research from FloraLife has found that almost 70% of flower shops use water containing bacteria that will reduce flower vase life.
Your body absorbs water through your straw. When gunk builds up on the inside of your straw, it becomes harder to drink.
Flowers are the exact same way.
If you take home a gift bouquet from Flower Delivery Belfast – Reid’s Florists then they will arrive fresh and ready for you to care for them properly. How long the flowers last is completely up to you!
One Hack That Actually Works
This trick is game-changing if you want to keep your flowers fresh.
CHANGE THE WATER EVERY TWO DAYS.
Yep. That’s honestly all you have to do. Refresh the water in the vase and your flowers can last much longer than you think.
Many people skip this step entirely.
Another thing to consider…
What temperature is the water? Most flowers prefer lukewarm water because it travels up the stems quicker. The exception is bulb flowers such as tulips which prefer cooler temperatures.
Tip: Remember to use the flower food sachet provided. They are packed with nutrients and antibacterial agents that help hydrate flowers and keep them blooming longer.
Want more helpful tips?
6 Steps Florists Use To Keep Flowers Alive Longer
Okay so you got the tip about changing your water. Here are some other simple tips you can use to keep those flowers alive.
Trim Stems
Fresh cut flowers should always be trimmed before placing in your vase. Cut the stems approximately one inch from the bottom at an angle.
You may ask, why?
Trimming the stems at an angle gives the flower more surface area to absorb water.
Tip: When trimming your stems, ensure you use a sharp knife or pair of scissors. Dull blades will crush the stem rather than give it a clean cut. Spend the extra dollar on a good pair of scissors.
It’s also important to re-trim the stems every time you change the water.
Remove Lower Leaves
Any leaves that will be below the waterline should be removed from the flower. Leaves rot in water and will create bacteria.
By removing these leaves your bouquet can last days longer.
Keep Away From Heat
Hot spots such as direct sunlight, stoves, heaters/radiators and even fruit bowls are all bad news for fresh flowers.
Heat will cause your flowers to dry out faster. And as we already know, bacteria will kill your flowers.
Produce such as apples and bananas release a gas that speeds up the ageing process. Research from The Old Farmer’s Almanac explains why keeping flowers away from fruit is so important.
It’s best to keep your flowers in a cool dry area away from windows and kitchens.
Use the Correct Vase
Believe it or not, vase size does matter.
You don’t want to overcrowd your flowers either. Proper air flow is important when trying to limit bacterial growth.
Also, make sure you wash your vase before use. You don’t want leftover residue from previous bouquets mixing with your fresh flowers.
Use Room Temperature Water
Speaking of water, let’s talk temperature.
Cold water will shock your flowers. Always use room temperature or lukewarm water.
There are exceptions to this however. Tropical flowers do better in warm environments. Also, spring flowers like tulips prefer cooler temperatures.
Mist Your Flowers
This step is optional but it helps! Flowers lose moisture through their petals and by spraying them with water, you allow them to absorb more moisture.
Don’t spray them down like you would laundry though. Too much moisture on the petals can cause mould to grow.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Even if you’re doing your best to keep those flowers alive, there are certain habits that will kill flowers quicker.
- Using dirty vases. Vases that have previously held flowers contain bacteria. As soon as you place fresh stems into that vase, the bacteria will begin to attack the stems.
- Forgetting to use flower food. Flower food packets are there for a reason. They contain everything your flowers need to stay fresh and beautiful.
- Crowding your flowers in the vase. Stems need room. If your flowers are cramped they will not get enough water circulation.
- Placing your flowers near a draught. Hot or cold air can cause flowers to become stressed and wilt.
- Leaving dying flowers in the bouquet. Dead flowers spread bacteria and release gases which will cause other flowers to die off quicker.
Which Flowers Last The Longest?
Not all flowers will make the cut.
If you are looking to have flowers that will last you the longest, here are your best bet:
- Chrysanthemums – Up to 4 Weeks
- Carnations – 2 Weeks – 3 Weeks
- Alstroemeria – Up To 2 Weeks
- Freesias – Up To 16 Days
- Roses – 1 Week – 2 Weeks (With Proper Care)
And the flowers that won’t:
- Tulips – Up To 1 Week
- Lilies – 8 Days – 10 Days
- Hydrangeas – 5 Days – 7 Days
Final Thoughts
If you want those gorgeous gift bouquets to last, you’ve got to remember these three things…
- Change your water regularly and keep it clean.
- Properly trim your stems.
- Provide a stress-free environment.
By following these steps, you’ll find that most bouquets can last double, if not triple the amount of time they normally would.
It’s easy to care for fresh flowers. They give such a big burst of happiness, why not allow that happiness to last?
So you received a beautiful bouquet. Don’t forget to show them some love.
They will thank you by staying fresh and beautiful for weeks longer.
