Whether you’re a florist or a flower enthusiast, knowing how to care for fresh blooms is essential to keeping them vibrant, fragrant, and long-lasting. Below are simple, tried-and-true tips for getting the most out of your flowers—because every stem deserves to shine!
Start with a Clean Slate
Before you even unwrap your flowers, clean your vase thoroughly with soap and hot water. Leftover bacteria from a previous bouquet can shorten the life of fresh blooms dramatically.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of bleach (about 1 teaspoon per quart of water) to kill any lingering germs.
Trim the Stems Right
Always cut stems at an angle—preferably under running water or submerged in water. This prevents air from entering the stems and allows for better water absorption.
- Use sharp floral shears or a clean knife—never scissors that can crush the stems.
- Remove any leaves that will sit below the water line to prevent rot and bacteria.
Hydration Is Everything
Fill your vase with lukewarm water and mix in flower food if provided. If you’re out of flower food, a DIY mix of sugar, lemon juice, and a drop of bleach can help.
Refresh the water every 2–3 days and re-trim stems for maximum longevity.
Placement Matters
Keep your flowers in a cool spot—away from direct sunlight, heat vents, or fruit bowls (yes, really—ripening fruit releases ethylene gas, which causes flowers to wilt faster).
Ideal conditions:
- Cool room temperature
- Indirect natural light
- Away from drafts and appliances
Extra Touches for Florists
If you’re prepping flowers for events:
- Store them in a floral cooler at 34–36°F.
- Use hydration solutions for thirsty stems like hydrangeas.
- Mist delicate blooms lightly for added moisture.
Final Thoughts
With just a little extra care, your flowers can last longer, look better, and make a stronger impact—whether they’re gracing a wedding bouquet or your kitchen counter.
Happy designing!
– The Florist Toolbox
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