Fresh flowers are always a delight, whether they’re a surprise on a regular day or a special gift for occasions like Mother’s Day. While flowers inevitably wilt over time, there are several effective strategies to extend their lifespan and keep them looking vibrant. Here are some professional tips to help your blooms last longer.
Choose Fresh, High-Quality Flowers
The first step in making flowers last longer is to start with high-quality blooms. “Buy really fresh, hardy flowers,” advises Michael Gaffney, director of the American School of Flower Design. Whether you purchase from a wholesaler, a farm, or an online flower delivery service, the fresher the flowers, the longer they will last.
Use Vodka to Prevent Bacterial Growth
Vodka can play a surprising role in floral care. This common household item helps to inhibit bacterial growth, which can prolong the life of your flowers. The Garden Club of Brookfield suggests adding 1 teaspoon of vodka to a quart of lukewarm water. Once you have prepared your flowers according to standard guidelines, place them in this vodka-infused water. Avoid using rubbing alcohol, but grain alcohol can be a suitable alternative.
Apply Flower Food for Extended Freshness
If your bouquet doesn’t come with flower food, keep some on hand. Valerie Ghitelman, vice president of sourcing and design for 1-800-Flowers.com, recommends using flower food to keep blooms fresh. Dissolve the food in lukewarm water, filling the vase about three-quarters full. Flower food typically contains sugar, citric acid, and bleach, which together feed the flowers, balance the pH level, and keep the water clean. Replace the flower food and water every two to three days to ensure optimal results.
Utilize Bleach to Maintain Clean Water
Bleach, a household staple, can be an effective tool for prolonging the life of your flowers. According to Michael Gaffney, bleach helps combat bacteria that can clog the stems and reduce hydration. Use a few drops of bleach in room-temperature water for an average-sized vase. Regularly check and top up the water, replacing it completely if it becomes cloudy.
Invest in the Right Cutting Tools
When it comes to trimming flowers, the right tools make a significant difference. Kaylyn Hewitt, lead floral designer at The Bouqs Company, suggests using a sharp knife or floral shears instead of dull scissors, which can damage stems. For hollow stems like daffodils, floral snips work best, while woody stems like hydrangeas benefit from bypass blade shears. A clean vase is also crucial, so wash it thoroughly before use.
Consider Using Crowning Glory Spray
Crowning Glory is a floral spray that helps reduce water loss by acting as an anti-desiccant. Michael Gaffney recommends using it to maintain the freshness of your arrangement. Apply a light mist to the flowers, and if you plan to refrigerate them, let the spray dry first. For a more diluted option, mix Crowning Glory with water.
Soda as an Alternative to Flower Food
If you run out of flower food, lemon-lime soda can be a handy substitute. The sugar in the soda feeds the flowers, while the citrus balances the pH level of the water. Mix 1/4 cup of soda with 3 parts room-temperature water. Even if the soda has lost its fizz, it will still benefit the flowers.
Use Aspirin to Balance Water pH
Aspirin can also help extend the life of cut flowers. It adjusts the water’s acidity, making it easier for flowers to absorb water. Combine 2 crushed aspirin tablets with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 3 drops of bleach in a quart of room-temperature water. This mixture can enhance the longevity of your bouquet. For tulips, use just a crushed aspirin.
Pennies for Antimicrobial Benefits
Placing an older penny (pre-1982) in the vase can help reduce bacterial growth due to its copper content. While this trick is less common, it can provide additional freshness benefits.
Key Tips for Flower Care
Cut Stems Properly: Trim stems at a 45-degree angle and remove a few inches from the bottom. This helps prevent air bubbles and allows for better water absorption.
Remove Excess Foliage: Eliminate any leaves that will be submerged in the water to avoid contamination.
Replenish Water Regularly: Change the water every three to five days, depending on its clarity, and recut the stems as needed.
Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight: Flowers last longer in cooler, darker environments.
Conclusion
By following these expert tips and tricks, you can keep your fresh flowers looking beautiful for a longer time. Proper care not only enhances their longevity but also ensures that they continue to brighten your space. And don’t forget to add a personal touch with a card to complement your floral gift.