Flowers are a common gift for anyone’s special occasions and even the moments in between. A bouquet of bright blooms can bring cheer to any space and leave a lasting impression, even after they’re gone. Whether you’ve received an anniversary arrangement, a congratulation flower bouquet, or picked out a gorgeous bunch for the coffee table, you’ll want to enjoy them for as long as possible. Fresh flowers are simply beautiful. Nothing brightens a room quite like a vase of fresh flowers. Even though most bouquets come with a little packet of “fresh keeper”, it often seems like our flowers are still not long-lasting, as we would like.
Tricks to Make Flowers Last Longer
The sad truth is that flower bouquets don’t last forever. Six tricks that are simple and easy to use to help you preserve your flowers, so they last longer and extend the happiness they bring into your life and home.
ALWAYS CUT THE STEMS BEFORE PLACING IN WATER
If you purchase your flowers, you should always cut the stems before putting them in water. If you are buying an arrangement from a professional florist, they should already be cut, and your flowers will be good for a few days. However, it’s still important to clip the stems after a few days. This will allow fresh water to penetrate the stem.
CUT BACK OR PULL OFF THE EXTRA LEAVES AND FOLIAGE
Before you place your cut flowers in a vase, take some time to remove any extra leaves at the base of the stem that would likely rest under the waterline of the container. Eliminating extra foliage will decrease any bacteria in the water, helping keep the water clean and free of any foul odors.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE VASE OR CONTAINER
The right size vase or container is an essential element in the life of your cut flower arrangement. If the opening is too narrow, the stems might appear to be cramped or squished. Either remove some of the stems to create a smaller bunch or find a larger vase to utilize. In the opposite direction, if the mouth of your vase is too wide the arrangement will not have any form or shape.
CHANGE THE WATER EVERY TWO DAYS
Fresh, clean water will keep your cut flowers natural looking for a longer time. About every two days take the flowers out of the vase and replenish the water. Rinse the vase with warm water to clean it out then fill it to two-thirds with fresh water. Placing your arrangement in the fridge overnight as florists do will also help extend your flower’s life.
REMOVE DYING FLOWERS
To continue to enjoy your flowers, remove blooms that are wilting and dying as they can begin to grow mold and contaminate the pretty blooms. While this won’t do anything to extend the life of your flowers, it will keep your arrangement looking good for a long time.
PLACE YOUR ARRANGEMENT IN THE BEST SPOT
Keeping your cut flowers in the right place can make a significant impact on their life. Place your arrangement in a shaded, cool area that receives indirect sunlight. The colder temperature helps preserve the blooms. It is also essential to keep cut flowers away from fruits in the kitchen or on the table.
Household Remedies
There’s no need to keep asking yourself how to make flowers last longer. Surprisingly, you might have a few things lying around the house that can help you enjoy your bouquets like Apple Cider Vinegar, Sugar, Aspirin, Bleach, Coins, Flower Food, Fridge, Hairspray, Soda, and Vodka.
Now that you have some extra tricks up your sleeve for ensuring the longevity of your bouquets, you should try one out yourself!
