Getting Started

Give your flowers a fresh start as soon as they arrive. Re-cut each stem at a 45-degree angle, about one to two centimetres from the bottom. A diagonal cut increases the surface area available to absorb water. For best results, make the cut while holding the stem under running water or while it is submerged, which prevents air bubbles from blocking the stem.

If your flowers came in a compostable water pack or water tubes, remove these right away before transferring to a clean vase of cool, fresh water.

Placement Matters

Where you display your arrangement has a big impact on how long it lasts.

• Keep flowers away from direct sunlight, heating vents, air conditioning, and drafts. All of these accelerate wilting.
• Avoid windowsills. Even indirect heat from a sunny window builds up quickly.
• Keep flowers away from fruit bowls. Ripening fruit releases ethylene gas, which causes many flower types to age and drop petals prematurely.
• Cooler room temperatures generally extend vase life. Flowers kept in a warmer room will open and fade faster.

Water & Maintenance

This is where most of the difference is made day to day.

• Keep your vase topped up so that all stems are submerged. Flowers that run out of water even briefly can develop air blocks in the stem and decline quickly.
• Remove any leaves or foliage that fall below the waterline. Submerged leaves decay fast and introduce bacteria into the water, which is what causes that cloudy look.
• Change the water completely every two days rather than waiting until it turns cloudy. When you do, give the vase a quick rinse and re-cut the stems.
• If your flowers arrived with a flower food packet, use it. It contains sugar for nourishment, an acidifier to help water travel up the stem, and a small amount of antibacterial agent. All three help.
• If your arrangement is in a basket or container with floral foam, add fresh water daily since foam dries out faster than an open vase.
• Remove any wilting or dead stems promptly. Decomposing plant material shortens the life of the healthy flowers around it.