How to care for cut flowers? 5 tips to make your flowers last as long as possible!
Cut flowers can bring a lot of charm to our home, but their beauty can fade quickly if we don't take proper care of them. Learn 5 proven tips that will help you enjoy the freshness of flowers for a longer time.
How to care for cut flowers?
In order for cut flowers to retain their charm for as long as possible, proper care is crucial. Regularly trimming the stems, changing the water properly, and storing them properly are the most important steps that will help keep them fresh for longer.
Tip #1: Trim the stems
Regular stem trimming is one of the most important procedures for keeping cut flowers fresh for a long time. Trim the ends of the stems at a 45-degree angle, which increases the surface area through which the flowers can absorb water. It is best to use a sharp knife or pruners so as not to damage the stems. It is worth repeating this procedure every 2-3 days, which allows for better absorption of water and nutrients, extending the life of the flowers.
Tip #2: Trim your flowers
Regularly remove dead leaves, flowers and twigs. Decayed plant parts can encourage bacteria to grow in the water, which speeds up the rotting process. Regularly trimming dead parts will keep the rest of the bouquet fresh longer.
Tip #3: Change the water often
The water in the vase should be changed every day or two. Clean, cool water prevents the growth of bacteria that can harm the flowers. It is best to use settled or filtered water to provide the flowers with optimal conditions for absorbing moisture and nutrients.
Tip #4: Properly Place Your Vase
The placement of the vase is of great importance for the durability of the flowers. Cut flowers should be kept away from direct sunlight, heat sources and drafts. Also avoid keeping them near ripe fruit, which releases ethylene, which accelerates the aging process of the flowers.
Tip #5: Add Conditioners
Adding a food to the water in your vase will help keep your flowers in better condition. You can use ready-made food available at a flower shop or use home remedies such as crushed aspirin, which helps keep the water fresh and inhibits the growth of bacteria. Another popular additive is sugar, which provides energy to the flowers.
How to extend the life of specific flowers?
Some flowers require special care to stay fresh longer. Here are some tips for caring for selected species:
How to extend the life of roses?
Roses it is best to prune daily at a 45-degree angle, removing lower leaves that could end up in the water. Keep the roses in cold water, which should be changed daily, and avoid placing them in places with direct sunlight. Additionally, at night the roses can be placed in a cool place to stay fresh longer.
How to care for daffodils?
Daffodils should be kept in shallow water and avoid contact with other flowers, as their stems secrete sap that is harmful to other plants. Change the water every 2-3 days and trim the stems regularly. Daffodils are best kept in a cool place out of direct sunlight.
How to extend the shelf life of cloves?
Carnations prefer lukewarm water, which should be changed every 2 days. Trim their stems regularly to improve water absorption. Keep the carnations in a cool place away from drafts. You can add a little sugar to the water to prolong their freshness.
How to extend the life of tulips?
Tulips are best kept in a cool place, avoiding excess water – immerse only the tips. Change the water daily and cut the stems at a 45-degree angle. Avoid keeping tulips in full sun or near fruit to prolong their life.
Which cut flowers last the longest?
If you want long-lasting freshness, it's worth choosing flowers that naturally last a long time in a vase. Here are the 5 most durable types:
- Cloves – known for their long durability, they can last up to three weeks.
- Chrysanthemums – they last in a vase for up to 2-3 weeks.
- Anthurium – their hard, fleshy flowers stay in great condition for about 2-3 weeks.
- Alstroemeria – these beautiful flowers can delight the eyes for up to 2 weeks.
- Lilacs (Asiatic lilies) – are resistant to wilting and can last up to 10-14 days.