How to Keep Your Flower Arrangement Fresh and Alive
Receiving a beautiful flower arrangement from a florist is special, and the sender wanted to send you joy or comfort, whether it’s for a special occasion or just because. To ensure your flowers stay fresh and vibrant for as long as possible, it’s important to take proper care of them. Here are some essential tips on what to do once you receive a flower arrangement to keep it looking fresh and alive.
1. Unpack Carefully
When you receive your flower arrangement, carefully remove any packaging materials such as plastic wrap, tissue paper, or foam. Be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate flowers and stems. If your flowers come in plastic, remove them as soon as possible.
2. Trim the Stems
Using a pair of sharp of floral pruners, or a sharp flower knife, trim about ½ - 1 inch off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. For best results, cut stems with a sharp knife at an angle about one to two inches from the bottom. This allows them to better absorb water. If you use dull scissors to cut your flowers, they can crush the stems and prevent water absorption. This helps to increase the surface area for water absorption, ensuring the flowers stay hydrated. Remember to re-trim the stems every few days to keep them absorbing water effectively.
3. Remove Any Lower Leaves
Remove any leaves that will be submerged in water. Leaves left in the water can decay and promote bacterial growth, which can shorten the lifespan of your flowers.
4. Use a Clean Vase
If your arrangement did not come with a vase, choose a clean vase that is the appropriate size for your flowers. A clean vase helps prevent the growth of bacteria that can harm your flowers. If your arrangement came with a vase, make sure your vase stays clean.
5. Add Flower Food
Most wrapped flower arrangements come with a packet of flower food. Follow the instructions on the packet and mix it with water in your vase. Flower food contains essential nutrients that help keep your flowers fresh longer. If you don’t have flower food, you can use a mixture of sugar, a few drops of bleach, and a pinch of citric acid as a substitute. If you received an arrangement in a vase or foam, the water already has flower food. If you don’t use it all, store in the refrigerator.
6. Arrange Your Flowers (if you received wrapped flowers)
Place your flowers in the vase, arranging them to your liking. Ensure that all stems are submerged in the water. This helps the flowers stay hydrated and fresh.
7. Keep Flowers Hydrated
Keep your vase filled with water! All flower and foliage stems should be submerged. Flowers stay fresher, longer when they can get a drink. If your flowers came in a basket or other container with foam, change water every day.
8. Choose the Right Location
Place your flower arrangement in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts. Avoid placing the flowers near ripening fruits, as fruits release ethylene gas which can cause flowers to wilt faster. Do not place your arrangement near fruit or in the path of cigarette smoke, as the ethylene gas is detrimental to many flower types. Also, avoid placing flower arrangements in windowsills and other areas with full sun where flowers can wilt due to overheating. Most flowers will last longer under cool conditions.
9. Change the Water Regularly
To keep your flowers fresh, change the water daily or every other day. When changing the water, rinse the vase thoroughly and add fresh flower food or your homemade mixture. Re-trim the stems each time you change the water to ensure they can continue to absorb water efficiently. Watch your water. When it gets cloudy, it’s time to change it out.
10. Remove Wilting Flowers and Anthers (from Your Lilies Once in Bloom)
As individual flowers start to wilt, remove them from the arrangement. This prevents bacteria from spreading to the healthy flowers and keeps the arrangement looking fresh. Immediately remove dead or wilting leaves and stems from fresh flower arrangements. The anther, the part of the stamen where pollen is produced, should be removed from your lilies once they bloom to prevent staining and prolong their life.
11. Enjoy Your Flowers
Finally, take time to enjoy your beautiful flowers! Their vibrant colors and lovely fragrances can brighten up any room and lift your spirits. Also, send a picture of your flowers to the person who sent them to you with a thank you so they can enjoy the gift of giving. It will give them a smile or give them comfort knowing you received their gift.
By following these simple steps, you can extend the life of your flower arrangement and enjoy its beauty for as long as possible. At University Flowers, we are committed to providing you with the freshest flowers and expert care tips to help you make the most of your floral arrangements.
For more flower care tips and to explore our wide range of beautiful bouquets, visit our website or stop by our shop in College Station. Happy flower arranging!
