Receiving flowers is always a huge pleasure, at least for most people. But there’s two sides to every coin. The despair of having to throw the flowers out only after a few days, is nearly synonymous with the elation of getting a bouquet. While this is inevitable, we have a few tricks that might help you keep your flowers for just a bit longer.
Use a clean and wide vase
A clean container will drastically reduce the growth of microorganisms that may lead to the decay of the flowers. Using a wide container will ensure that the flowers are not squeezed onto each other.
Keep your bouquet in warm water
By the time your flowers are getting to you, chances are they have lost a considerable amount of moisture. As florists will often do, dip your flowers in warm water, about 43 degrees Celsius, then place them in a cool environment. It is widely known that warm water is quickly absorbed into plant cells. This is especially important when trying to restore wilted stems.
Cut the stems at an angle
Cutting your flowers straight across the stem will make it difficult for your bouquet to take up water, since the flower stems will be sitting flat at the bottom of the vase. Ensuring that you cut at an angle will help with water absorption.
It is also important to trim the stems right before dipping the flowers into the water. You can also cut more sensitive flowers, such as roses, underwater.
Remove lower leaves
Leaves that fall under the waterline will begin to rot pretty quickly. The rot provides food for bacteria, which then multiply and infect the plant. It is important to remove the leaves to halt this process altogether.
Change the water every two to three days
Change the water as frequently as you are able to. This greatly cuts down the risk of infection.
Keep the flowers away from any sources of heat
Placing your flower directly under the sun will only hasten the withering process. Similarly, placing your bouquet near a bowl of fruits will lead to quicker deterioration, as fruits emit small amounts of ethylene.
Once you’ve done most of what we have listed herein, your flowers should last at least two weeks, after which you can dispose them and get a fresh bouquet.