Caring for cut flowers

Caring for cut flowers properly can extend their beauty for 7–14 days (sometimes more, depending on the flower). Here’s a step-by-step guide to help your bouquet last longer:

🌸 How to Care for Cut Flowers

1. Prepare a Clean Vase

• Wash your vase thoroughly with warm, soapy water to remove bacteria.

• Rinse well and fill it with room temperature water.

2. Trim the Stems

• Use sharp scissors or a knife (not dull kitchen scissors).

• Cut 1–2 inches off the bottom at a 45-degree angle under running water or submerged in water.

  This helps prevent air bubbles and improves water absorption.

3. Remove Lower Leaves

• Strip off any leaves that will sit below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.

4. Use Flower Food

• Most bouquets come with a flower food packet — use it.

• Or make your own:

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (nourishment)

  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice (bacteria control)

  • 1–2 drops of bleach (optional, helps with bacteria)

  • Mix into 1 quart of water

5. Change the Water Every 2 Days

• Refill with fresh, clean water and repeat the flower food process.

• Re-trim the stems slightly each time.

6. Avoid Heat, Sun, and Fruit

• Keep flowers away from:

  • Direct sunlight

  • Heaters or air vents

  • Ripening fruit (releases ethylene gas, which shortens lifespan)

7. Mist the Flowers (Optional)

• Lightly mist petals with water daily to keep them hydrated, especially for roses, hydrangeas, and tulips.

🧼 Bonus Tip: Clean the Vase Again Midweek

Even with regular water changes, bacteria can build up. Give the vase a quick clean midweek.