Caring for your Fresh Flowers

How can I make my fresh flower bouquet last longer?

Certain varieties of cut flowers are just naturally longer lasting than some others varieties. For example, Carnations can be very long lasting while Roses have a shorter life.

Keep flowers in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit; 18 to 22 degrees Celsius), away from direct sunlight, heat or cooling vents, direct drafts from a ceiling fan, and the tops of televisions or radiators. (Appliances like televisions give off heat, causing flowers to dehydrate.)

What to do when flowers arrive in wet foam

Keep the floral foam soaked in water which contains floral food, following the directions on the floral food package. You should have received a package of floral food with your order.

What to do when you have a vase of fresh flowers

Keep the vase filled with water containing floral food provided by your florist. Be sure to follow the directions on the package.
Replace the water with fresh when it becomes cloudy, Recut the stems by removing one to two inches from the bottom with a sharp knife.

Remove leaves that will be below the waterline. Any leaves in water will promote bacterial growth that can harm the flowers.

Caring for Quince, Forsythia, Lilacs and other flowers with woody stems

Cut the stem with sharp pruning shears then place in warm water containing fresh floral food to promote flower opening.

What is floral food and why use it?

Floral food is a combination of additives that help to nourish the flowers and discourage bacteria from growing in the water. It is one of the best—and easiest—ways to extend the life of your flowers. It is very important to follow the directions on the package correctly. Improperly mixed floral food can do more harm than good.