Just recieved a beautiful bouquet? You’ll want to keep it looking good for as long as possible. Cut flowers have a limited lifespan, so follow our guide to keep your flowers looking fresh.

Trim the stems

The first thing to do when arranging freshly cut flowers in a vase is to trim the stems.How much you trim will depend on the height of the vase they’ll be going into, but aim to lop off at least 5cm fom the end of the stem, and on an angle. This allows the stems to absorb more water, and keep them alive for longer.

Use sharp scissors or secateurs, and if possible, cut the stems under water  to prevent water bubbles. Trim any leaves off the stem that lies below the water line in the vase, but leave thorns on roses.

Keep the water clean

Always use fresh water in the vase when arranging flowers. Keep the vase about two-thirds full, and top it up every day. Change the water every couple of days, but if the water looks cloudy, it’s time to change it.

Be aware that daffodils need to be in a vase on their own, not mixed with other blooms, because they emit a toxic compound into the water that kills other flowers quickly.

Add more than water

Many floral arrangements from flower shops come with a sachet of ready-made plant food to be added to the water. Mix it in the water until it dissolves before adding the flowers. If you don’t get a sachet from the florist, there are other things you can use to prolong their life, including a mix of  a little bleach, citric acid and sugar.

Soft drink such as lemonade or soda water, or a little vodka with sugar will also do the trick, and even a multivitamin in the water has been known to help. Aspirin will kill any growing bacteria, as will lemon juice or vinegar. Another suggestion is a copper coin and a sugar cube in the bottom of the vase.

Keep them out of the sun

Keep your vase out of direct sunlight and away from drafts. Cut flowers prefer cool, dry conditions, and try to keep them away from bowls of fruit. As fruit ripens, it emits a gas that shortens the lifespan of flowers.

At night, place them somewhere cool place – even the fridge – to keep them fresh. Finally, tend the flowers on a daily basis, removing dead leaves and don’t forget to change the water every couple of days.

A quick burst of hair spray over the flowers will also keep them fresher longer.

To organise a flower delivery to brighten up your home or workplace call a florist today. Click here to find one near you.