Caring for Cut Flowers

Caring for Cut Flowers

Whatever the occasion, you want a beautiful bouquet of fresh cut flowers—or a single flower/corsage as a keepsake. Make the memory last.

Here are cut flower care tips for maximum longevity:

• Remove leaves that will be underwater in the vase.
• With stem end underwater, cut ~1 inch off at an angle with a sharp knife. Opens veins for better water uptake.
• Fill vase ¾ full with fresh, room-temperature to slightly warm water.
• Add floral preservative per package directions (included with most arrangements).
• Arrange flowers, then leave in a cool, dark room for a couple hours to settle.
• Always display in a cool area.
• Keep out of direct sunlight.
• Change water daily to keep it fresh.
• At bedtime, refrigerate if possible. Otherwise, find the coolest spot (garage?). Avoid areas near freezing (low 30s°F).

Did You Know? Flowers dislike ethylene gas. Sources: ripening fruits/vegetables, cigarette smoke, car exhaust.

How to Straighten a Drooping Flower Head

After a few days, flower heads may droop—air bubbles block water passage. Often easily fixed, especially with roses.

Here's how:

• Fill sink with water.
• Hold stem underwater, cut ~1 inch off at a slant.
• Lay flower flat in water, gently re-straighten head.
• Keep stem end underwater.
• Leave in water 30–45 minutes to harden straight.
• Return to vase.