Learn how to make fresh-cut flowers last longer with these florist-approved hacks.
Is there anything better than a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers?
The glorious burst of color and gorgeous scent can transform any room.
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But here’s the unfortunate truth: They start to die once you set them in the vase.
Allflower arrangementsbegin wilting within days, and most are dead within a week.
That said, you’re free to do some things to make flowers last longer.
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Cut each stem at a 45-degree angle to maximize the surface area through which flowers intake water.
In addition, recutting the stems whenever you change the water will help your flowers stay fresher.
Aim to keep the stems a couple of inches from the bottom of the vase.
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These leaves can contaminate the water with bacteria and kill the arrangement more quickly.
Keeping the water clean and free from these leaves can help flowers stay fresh andsmelling good.
Stembel says flower arrangements should be removed from direct sunlight and heat sources to stay better hydrated.
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“Bacteria build-up is natural as your flowers age,” Stembel says.
How much water is sufficient?
Always thoroughly wash your vase with soapy water before adding any flowers.
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Be sure all of the soap is completely rinsed away, too.
Like fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers release ethylene gas, which hurts the longevity of living flowers.
When adding the food, it should be mixed well.
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Add more flower food every two to three days after changing the water.
In a pinch, bleach can act as a preservative.
you could alsomake your own flower food.
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Remember Flower Longevity Varies
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Not all flowers have the same life expectancy.
For example,carnationslast a lot longer than peonies.
