Keep your flowers fresh for longer with Orabella’s expert Flower Care Tips. Learn the best bouquet maintenance practices to enjoy vibrant blooms at home.
Receiving a beautiful bouquet is always a delightful experience, but keeping those fresh blooms vibrant for days can be challenging. Proper flower care tips ensure your flowers remain fresh and lively for as long as possible. Whether it’s a gift from a loved one or a treat for yourself, knowing how to care for your bouquet can make all the difference.
At Orabella, we believe that with the right bouquet maintenance, you can extend the life of your flowers and continue to enjoy their beauty for days or even weeks. In this guide, we’ll share expert-recommended flower care tips to help your floral arrangements stay fresh and fragrant.
1. Start with a Clean Vase
Before placing your flowers in water, always use a clean vase. Bacteria buildup in a dirty vase can shorten the lifespan of your flowers. Wash your vase with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
2. Trim the Stems Properly
How to Cut Flower Stems Correctly:
- Use a sharp knife or garden shears instead of regular scissors to avoid crushing the stems.
- Cut stems at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area for water absorption.
- Trim about one inch off the stems every few days to prevent blockages from bacteria buildup.
3. Use Fresh, Clean Water
Changing the water every two days helps prevent bacterial growth. Always use room-temperature water, as extremely cold or hot water can shock the flowers.
4. Add Flower Food or DIY Nutrients
Most bouquets come with a packet of flower food, which contains essential nutrients and bacteria-fighting agents. If you don’t have commercial flower food, you can make your own using:
- 1 teaspoon sugar (nourishes the flowers)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (inhibits bacteria)
- A few drops of bleach (keeps water clear and bacteria-free)
5. Remove Foliage Below the Waterline
Leaves submerged in water can rot quickly, promoting bacterial growth that shortens the bouquet’s lifespan. Always remove excess foliage before placing flowers in a vase.
6. Keep Flowers Away from Heat and Direct Sunlight
Flowers thrive in cool, shaded areas. Avoid placing them near:
- Direct sunlight
- Heating vents or radiators
- Kitchen appliances that emit heat (e.g., ovens and microwaves)
- Ceiling fans or air conditioners that can dehydrate petals
7. Mist Your Flowers for Extra Hydration
Some flowers, like roses and hydrangeas, benefit from occasional misting. Lightly spray the petals with clean water to maintain moisture and freshness.
8. Use the Right Vase for Each Flower Type
Choosing the Right Vase:
- Tall-stemmed flowers (e.g., lilies, roses): Use a tall, narrow vase to provide support.
- Short-stemmed flowers (e.g., tulips, daisies): A shallow, wide-mouthed vase works best.
- Mixed bouquets: Ensure the vase size accommodates different flower heights for balanced support.
9. Recut Stems Every Few Days
To keep your bouquet looking fresh, recut the stems every two to three days. This prevents blockages that inhibit water absorption and revitalizes wilting flowers.
10. Remove Wilting Flowers Promptly
As soon as you notice a flower wilting, remove it from the bouquet. One decaying flower can release ethylene gas, which speeds up the aging process of the remaining flowers.
11. Store Flowers in the Fridge Overnight
If you want your bouquet to last even longer, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Cooler temperatures slow down the aging process, helping flowers stay fresh for several extra days.
12. Avoid Ethylene-Producing Fruits
Fruits like apples and bananas release ethylene gas, which accelerates flower decay. Keep your bouquet away from fruit bowls to extend its lifespan.
Final Thoughts
With these flower care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your bouquets for an extended period. Proper bouquet maintenance not only enhances freshness but also ensures you get the most out of your floral arrangements.
Orabella is committed to delivering high-quality, fresh flowers with every order. Follow these tips and make the most of your beautiful blooms!