If you’re struggling with keeping your fresh flowers alive for longer, there are a few key tips that can help extend their lifespan. Exposure to direct sunlight, heaters, or air conditioning can dehydrate flowers, causing them to wilt prematurely. Paridhi Joshi, assistant vice president at FNP (formerly Ferns N Petals), shares expert advice on how to care for your flowers properly.
Joshi suggests using a clean vase filled with fresh, room-temperature water, and changing the water every two days to prevent bacterial growth. She also advises trimming the stems at a 45-degree angle to enhance water absorption. Removing any leaves below the waterline will prevent contamination, and using the flower food packet that comes with your bouquet is essential as it contains nutrients and antibacterial agents.
To keep your flowers fresh, place them in a cool, shaded area, away from direct sunlight, drafts, and ripening fruits, which emit ethylene gas that can cause flowers to wilt. Lightly misting the flowers daily, especially in dry climates, will help maintain hydration.
Joshi also pointed out some common mistakes that reduce the lifespan of flowers, including not changing the water regularly, leaving leaves submerged in the vase, and failing to trim the stems. Placing flowers in direct sunlight or near heat sources, or close to ripening fruits, can also accelerate wilting. Lastly, skipping the use of flower food and ignoring the room’s environment, such as fluctuating temperatures or drafts, can cause unnecessary stress on your flowers.
