Shop our Green Plant Sale in Special Deals. Save 15% off select items.

Local Same Day & Express Delivery In Rochester & Canandaigua | Nationwide Same Day Delivery Anywhere In The USA

(585) 225-3640     Login      Cart (0)
Toggle navigation

Caring for Cut Flowers: Tips to Make Your Bouquet Last Longer

Caring for Cut Flowers: Tips to Make Your Bouquet Last Longer

At Rockcastle Florist, we pour our hearts into creating beautiful bouquets that bring joy and beauty to your life. To help you enjoy your flowers for as long as possible, we've put together this guide filled with cut flowers care tips. Follow these simple steps to extend the life of your blooms and keep them looking their best.

Start with a Clean Vase

Before you even think about placing your flowers in water, make sure your vase is sparkling clean. Bacteria can shorten the lifespan of your flowers, so wash the vase with hot soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. Make sure that the vase is also similar in size to the length of the blooms you want to put in it. If you have tall stems, using a short vase puts a lot of strain on each flower you place. 

Trim the Stems

When you first receive your flowers, give the stems a fresh cut at an angle using a sharp knife or floral shears. This creates a larger surface area for water absorption. Avoid using scissors, as they can crush the stems and hinder water uptake.

Remove Leaves Below the Waterline

Leaves submerged in water will decompose, creating bacteria and clouding the water. Strip away any leaves that would fall below the waterline in your vase.

Use the Right Water

  • Temperature: Lukewarm water is best for most flowers. Avoid using hot or cold water, as it can shock the stems.
  • Freshness: Change the water every day or two to prevent bacteria buildup.
  • Flower Food: Use the flower food packet that came with your bouquet. It contains nutrients and preservatives that help keep your flowers hydrated and healthy.

Choose the Right Location

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts. These can cause the flowers to dehydrate quickly.
  • Consider Fruit: Keep your flowers away from ripening fruit. Fruit releases ethylene gas, which can accelerate the aging process of flowers.

Provide Extra TLC

  • Re-cut Stems: Every few days, re-trim the stems at an angle to promote water absorption.
  • Rotate the Vase: Turn the vase regularly so that all sides of the flowers are exposed to light. This helps them stay hydrated evenly.
  • Mist the Blooms: Lightly misting the petals of your flowers can help keep them hydrated, especially in dry environments.

Cut Flowers Care Tips: Additional Advice

  • Avoid overcrowding: Don't overcrowd your flowers in the vase. Give them space to breathe and allow air circulation.
  • Handle with care: Be gentle when handling your flowers to avoid bruising or damaging the petals.
  • Know your flowers: Different flowers have different needs. If you're unsure about specific care instructions, ask your florist for advice.

At Rockcastle Florist, we're committed to providing you with the freshest, highest-quality blooms. By following these cut flowers care tips, you can extend the life of your bouquet and enjoy its beauty for days to come. Contact Rockcastle Florist today to find the perfect flowers for your home or to send as a thoughtful gift.