Cut flowers are a wonderful addition to any home, bringing color, freshness, and a natural touch. However, keeping them fresh for as long as possible can be a challenge. With a few practical tips and tricks, you can extend the life of your cut flowers and enjoy their beauty for longer. Here are the most effective tips for caring for cut flowers, debunking myths and expert advice.

Preparing Flowers for Long Lasting

Cutting Stems the Right Way

The first step to ensuring that cut flowers last longer is to cut the stems correctly. Use scissors or a sharp knife to make a 45-degree angle cut. This increases the surface area for water absorption, allowing the flowers to receive more hydration and stay fresh longer. This cut should be repeated every day or two to further improve the lifespan of the bouquet.

Use Sharp and Clean Scissors

Using clean, sharp tools is essential to prevent bacteria from transferring to the flower stems. Cleaning scissors with warm, soapy water before each use can help preserve the freshness of the flowers and prevent infections that can accelerate the wilting process.

The Perfect Vase for Every Type of Flower

Vase Selection Based on Bouquet Weight and Structure

The right vase not only adds elegance, but it also helps stabilize the flowers. For heavier arrangements or those with short stems, a low, stable vase is preferable, while for lighter flowers, a tall vase can be opted for. This helps keep the flowers well hydrated and supported, allowing them to grow without bending or breaking.

Amount of Water in the Vase

Filling the vase with the right amount of water is essential. It is recommended to fill it only halfway or until it covers about half of the stems. Too much water can cause rapid deterioration because it stimulates bacterial growth. Also, keeping the water level constant and clean is crucial to preserving the freshness of the flowers.

Nourishment of Cut Flowers

Nutrient Solutions to Extend Freshness

Many cut bouquets come with nourishment packets, which are highly recommended. If you don't have one, you can make your own: just add a small amount of sugar, a squeeze of lemon, and a few drops of bleach. This mixture acts as a natural preservative, nourishing the flowers and inhibiting bacterial growth in the water.

Alternative Nutrition: Myths and Grandma's Advice

Some alternative methods of feeding flowers include using sugar or vinegar, which help inhibit bacteria and improve water absorption. Sugary drinks, such as 7Up, are another interesting alternative to keep flowers fresh longer, thanks to their acidity and the sugars they contain.

Water Management and Toilet Cleaning

Changing Water Regularly

To prolong the life of your flowers, changing the water every two days is essential. Stale water encourages the growth of bacteria, which causes the stems to deteriorate quickly. Using fresh water every time you change it, preferably at room temperature or slightly cool, helps keep the flowers more vigorous and brilliant.

Cleaning the Vase

Every time you change the water, be sure to wash the vase thoroughly. Use warm, soapy water to remove any plant debris or bacteria that may be present. A clean vase provides a healthier environment for your flowers, preventing bacteria from building up and damaging your bouquet.

Environment and Flower Placement

Avoid Heat Sources and Direct Light

Excessive heat and direct sunlight can quickly damage cut flowers, causing them to wilt prematurely. It is advisable to place the vase in a cool, shaded place, away from radiators, fireplaces or windows with direct light. In winter, an effective trick is to place the flowers in a cooler room at night to prolong their life.

Using Ice in Summer

During the warm months, it is helpful to keep the vase water cool by placing two ice cubes in the morning and evening. This helps keep the temperature low, reducing stress on the flowers and helping them stay fresh longer, especially on the hottest days.

Removal of Damaged Parts

Removing Leaves in Water

Leaves that are below the water level tend to rot quickly, creating a favorable environment for bacteria that accelerate the wilting of the flowers. It is advisable to remove all leaves on the stems that could come into contact with the water, to keep the latter clean longer.

Separation of Wilted Flowers

In a bouquet, flowers that begin to wilt release substances that can damage the still fresh flowers. To avoid this “contagion”, promptly remove the withered flowers, leaving only the healthy ones in the vase. This simple practice prolongs the life of the bouquet and keeps it aesthetically pleasing.

Alternative Preservation Methods: Dried Flowers

Techniques for Drying Cut Flowers

If you want to preserve flowers even after they have dried, drying is a good option. Place the flowers in a dark, dry place, hanging them upside down to prevent the petals from falling or getting damaged. Flowers such as lavender, hydrangeas, and roses are particularly suitable for this method and retain their beauty for a long time.

Using Dried Flowers in Interior Decoration

Dried flowers are ideal for creating permanent decorations that enrich the interior decor. They can be inserted into rustic or minimalist compositions to add a natural and charming touch to the home. This alternative to preserving in water is perfect for those who want to maintain the charm of cut flowers all year round.

Conclusion

Keeping cut flowers fresh requires only a few steps, but each one contributes significantly to their lifespan. With the correct cutting of the stems, an appropriate vase, clean water at all times, and a cool location, you can extend the life of your cut flowers, maintaining their beauty and natural scent for longer. Share these tips and enjoy your flowers to the fullest!