How to Make Your Flowers Bouquet Last Longer

Fresh flower bouquets are a universal sign of beauty and affection and Clapham Flowers offer gorgeous arrangements for any occasion. Whether you've received a bouquet as a gift or you enjoy the regular delight of subscription flowers, you might be wondering how to prolong their lifespan. Here are some practical tips to make your Flowers delivered or any flower last longer.

Clean and Prune

Start by cleaning the vase with a mild detergent to remove any bacterial growth from previous use. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no residue is left behind. Before placing your flower bouquet into the vase, prune the flowers by cutting off any leaves that fall below the water line, which can lead to bacterial growth and shorten the lifespan of your bouquet.

Cut the Stems

A crucial step in maintaining your flowers is to trim the stems. Cutting the stems diagonally under running water or submerged in water prevents air from getting into the veins of the stem, ensuring that water uptake is uninterrupted. Aim for a 45-degree angle cut to provide the largest surface area for water absorption.

Refresh the Water

Be sure to change the water in the vase regularly - every two days is a good benchmark. Each time you change the water, consider re-trimming the stems to ensure maximum hydration. Use lukewarm water, as most flowers take up lukewarm water more efficiently than cold water.

Feed Your Flowers

Adding nutrients to the water can significantly improve the lifespan of your Flower bouquet. At Clapham Flowers, we provide small packets of flower food, designed to nourish your flowers and maintain their beauty. 

If you don't have these, you can make a homemade version by mixing 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of bleach in a quart of water. This mixture provides the nutrients that flowers need to thrive and helps to keep bacteria at bay.

Keep them Cool

Like many of us, flowers prefer a cool, comfortable environment. Avoid placing your flowers near appliances that generate heat or in direct sunlight. A cooler nighttime temperature can help to prolong their lifespan, so consider placing your bouquet in a cooler area or even the refrigerator overnight.

Keep Away From Fruits

Fruits, especially ripening ones, emit a gas called ethylene, which accelerates the aging process of flowers. Keep your flower bouquet away from your fruit bowl or any ripening fruits to extend its lifespan.

Mist your Flowers

Many flowers hydrate through their petals, so a light misting can help keep them vibrant. This is especially useful for subscription flowers that you want to keep as fresh as possible. Do this in the morning to mimic the natural dew they would typically encounter.

By implementing these tips, you'll be able to extend the life of your flowers bouquet, enjoying their vibrant colors and soothing fragrances for an extended period. 

Remember, though, that every flower has a different lifespan, so some might naturally wilt before others. Regularly remove wilted flowers from your subscription bouquet to prevent them from hastening the decay of the others. With proper care, your flowers will stay beautiful for as long as possible.