What care should be taken with cut flowers to make them last longer?

21 February 2025

Find out our florists’ tips for extending the life of cut flowers and keeping them looking beautiful for longer.

What should we do to ensure that the cut flowers we use to decorate vases in our homes or shops last longer?

1. INITIAL PREPARATION

Cutting the stems: Before placing the flowers in water, cut about 2-3 cm off the stems at a 45° angle to increase the water absorption area.
Removing submerged leaves: Remove the leaves that would be below the water level to prevent rotting, which can generate bacteria and harm the flowers.

2. CHOICE OF VASE AND WATER

Clean vase: Use a clean vase, with no traces of dirt or chemicals. Wash it with soap and water before use.
Fresh water: Fill the vase with fresh water, preferably filtered water or water that has been left to stand for a while after being removed from the tap to eliminate chlorine. Change the water every 2 days.
Water temperature: Room temperature is ideal, avoid very cold or hot water.

3. FLOWER FOOD

Prepare your own homemade solution that is rich in nutrients and helps prevent bacteria.

HOMEMADE RECIPE

1 teaspoon of sugar (nutrient)
1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice (antibacterial)
1 litre of water

4. SUITABLE ENVIRONMENT

Avoid exposure to direct sunlight: Cut flowers last longer in cool places, away from direct sunlight.
Avoid close proximity to heat sources: Keep flowers away from appliances that generate heat, such as domestic appliances and heaters.
Avoid draughty areas: Constant winds can dehydrate flowers, so keep them away from exposure to air conditioning.
Avoid proximity to fruit: ripe fruit releases ethylene, a gas that accelerates the ageing of flowers.

5. ONGOING MAINTENANCE

Changing the water: Renew the water every two days, always cleaning the vase and re-cutting the stems before placing them back in the vase.
Removing wilted flowers: Remove any flowers or leaves that start to wilt to prevent rot from affecting the rest.
Refresh the flowers: In very dry or hot climates or environments, lightly spray the flower petals with water.

6. SPECIFIC CARE YOU SHOULD TAKE WITH SOME FLOWERS

Roses: Remove the thorns below the water line and cut the stem daily.
Tulips: They like cold water and benefit from ice in the vase.
Hydrangeas: Soak wilted heads in cold water for 30 minutes to revitalise them.

Follow our florists’ tips and your cut flowers will stay beautiful and healthy for longer!

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