There's nothing quite like a fresh flower arrangement to brighten up your home, bring a smile to someone’s face, or add a touch of elegance to a special occasion. But fresh flowers are fleeting by nature. The good news? With a few simple tricks, you can significantly extend the life of your bouquet.
Here are tried-and-true tips to keep your flower arrangement looking vibrant for as long as possible:
1. Change the Water Every 2-3 Days
Old water becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Refresh your arrangement by replacing the water every two to three days—more often in warmer weather. Wash the vase and recut the stems when you do this for best results.
2. Keep the water extra clean
Flower "food" isn't really food. It is actually a mixture that helps keep bacteria growth at a minimum. We recommend making your own flower "food" by mixing the following and adding to the vase of fresh water each day
Flower "food" recipe:
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1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
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1-2 drops of bleach
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Mix with a quart of lukewarm water
An alternative is to add a drop of mild dish soap to the water (this is the method we use in our studio!)
3. Keep Them Cool and Out of Direct Sunlight
Flowers do best in a cool, shaded location. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, near heaters or radiators, or close to fresh fruit (which releases ethylene gas that speeds up wilting).
4. Remove Wilting Flowers Promptly
As soon as you notice a flower starting to wilt, remove it. Decaying flowers release bacteria and ethylene gas that can cause the rest to deteriorate faster. It's also a fun way to "redesign" your own arrangement as it matures.
Final Thoughts
A little care goes a long way when it comes to keeping your floral arrangements looking fresh and fabulous. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your blooms for a week—or even longer in order to make the most of nature's beauty.
