Flower Care 101: How to Keep Your Arrangements Fresh for Longer

Published: Monday 26 June 2023

Flowers have the power to brighten up any space and bring joy to our lives. However, nothing is more disappointing than seeing your beautiful flower arrangements wilt and fade after just a few days. With a little bit of care and attention, you can keep your blooms looking fresh and beautiful for much longer.

In this blog, we'll cover the basics of flower care and offer expert tips on how to extend the lifespan of your arrangements. From watering to temperature control, we've got you covered!

Watering: The Importance of Proper Hydration

Proper hydration is essential for the longevity of your flowers. Without enough water, your blooms will wilt and fade much faster. To keep your flowers fresh for longer, make sure to change the water every two to three days, as bacteria can grow in stagnant water and shorten the life of your blooms. 

When you change the water, be sure to trim the stems at a 45-degree angle to allow for better water absorption. Also, make sure that the water level is high enough to cover the bottom of the stems. However, be careful not to overfill the vase, as too much water can cause the stems to rot. By taking care to properly hydrate your flowers, you can help ensure that they stay vibrant and beautiful for as long as possible. 

Pruning and Maintenance: Trimming Your Blooms for a Longer Lifespan

Pruning and maintenance are paramount for keeping your flowers looking fresh and vibrant for longer. Regularly trimming the stems of your blooms can help them absorb water more efficiently, which is essential for their survival. You should remove any leaves or foliage that will be submerged in water, as they can actually cause bacterial growth and lead to a shorter lifespan for your flowers.

Not only can fallen leaves and foliage affect the flower's lifespan, but so can wilted or damaged blooms, as they can release ethylene gas, which can cause the other flowers in the arrangement to age more quickly, and as such, they should also be removed. When trimming the stems, be sure to use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, and cut at a 45-degree angle to maximise water absorption. With a little bit of maintenance and care, your beautiful blooms can continue to look beautiful and fresh for days or even weeks.

Temperature Control: Keeping Your Flowers Cool and Comfortable

Temperature control is an incredibly important factor in keeping your flowers fresh for as long as possible, and can often be overlooked. Extreme temperatures can cause your blooms to wilt and fade much faster. To keep your flowers cool and comfortable, avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source. Much like other plant life that you may have looked after, keep them in a cool, shaded area, away from strong wind and fluctuating temperatures. 

If you're transporting flowers, make sure to keep them in a cool environment, such as an air-conditioned car, and avoid leaving them in the car for too long. 

If you're displaying your flowers in a vase, ensure you’re changing the water regularly and avoid placing them near sources of heat or cold, such as heaters or strong air conditioning vents. When you take the time to take care of the temperature around your flowers, you can help them remain fresh and vibrant

Tricks of the Trade: Expert Tips for Extending the Life of Your Arrangements

Flower arrangements can be a complete delight, but maintaining their freshness can be a bit of a challenge. Fear not, as expert florists have some useful tips to help extend the life of your blooms. One effective trick is to rinse the vase with bleach to get rid of bacteria that can shorten the life of your flowers. Additionally, for certain flowers such as dahlias, hydrangeas, and peonies, you can immerse them in boiling water for around 10 seconds before placing them in the vase.

Another helpful tip to note is that adding a pinch of sugar to the water can encourage flowers to open up faster. It's also essential to keep your flowers away from direct sunlight or heat, and to trim their stems and change the water every few days. By following these expert tips, you can help your floral arrangements stay fresh and lovely for a more extended period.

Taking care of your flowers is an art and a science. With a few simple tricks and some expert guidance, you can keep your arrangements looking beautiful for days or even weeks on end. Remember to change the water regularly, trim the stems, and keep your flowers in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight or heat. By taking care of your flowers, you can enjoy their beauty and fragrance for much longer.