How to Care for Your Fresh Flowers
There’s nothing quite like the joy of receiving a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers. Whether it’s a gift from a loved one, a treat to yourself, or part of your Petal Perks subscription, fresh flowers can brighten any space. To make sure your blooms stay vibrant and last as long as possible, it’s essential to know how to care for them properly. In this post, we’ll share some expert tips on how to care for your fresh flowers so you can enjoy their beauty for days to come.
General Tips for Keeping Flowers Fresh Longer
Trim the Stems: One of the first things you should do when you receive fresh flowers is trim the stems at an angle. This helps the flowers absorb water more efficiently. Aim to trim about 1 to 2 inches off the stems and re-trim them every few days.
Change the Water Regularly: Fresh water is key to keeping your flowers healthy. Change the water in your vase every 2-3 days and make sure to clean the vase to prevent bacterial growth. Add fresh flower food to the water if available, as it provides essential nutrients.
Remove Any Leaves Below the Waterline: Leaves that sit in the water can rot quickly, causing bacteria to grow and shortening the life of your flowers. Remove any foliage that would be submerged in the water.
Keep Flowers Away from Direct Sunlight and Heat: While flowers need light, direct sunlight and heat can cause them to wilt faster. Place your arrangement in a cool, shaded area, away from windows, heating vents, and appliances that emit heat.
Specific Care Tips for Different Types of Flowers
Roses: Roses benefit from being placed in lukewarm water and trimmed regularly. Gently remove any outer petals that look bruised to keep the bouquet looking fresh.
Lilies: Lilies can be sensitive to ethylene gas, which is emitted by ripening fruits and vegetables. Keep lilies away from your fruit bowl, and remove the pollen from the stamens to avoid staining.
Peonies: Peonies are thirsty flowers, so make sure to keep the water level high. They prefer cooler temperatures, so placing them in a cool room can help extend their lifespan.
Tulips: Tulips continue to grow even after being cut. To prevent them from drooping, trim the stems regularly and place them in a tall vase with fresh water.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the Vase: Overcrowding can cause flowers to struggle for water and air circulation. Make sure your vase is large enough for the number of stems and give each flower enough space to breathe.
Ignoring Wilting Flowers: As soon as you notice a flower wilting, remove it from the arrangement. This prevents the spread of bacteria and keeps the remaining flowers fresh.
Not Using Flower Food: Flower food packets aren’t just a marketing gimmick—they actually contain nutrients and antibacterial agents that help extend the life of your flowers. Always add it to the water if you have it.
Taking care of your fresh flowers doesn’t have to be complicated. With these simple tips, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of your blooms for days, if not weeks. Whether you’re enjoying a bouquet from your Petal Perks subscription or a special arrangement from Zodiac Florals, proper care ensures that your flowers will continue to bring joy and brighten your space. Happy arranging!
