How to Make Cut Flowers Last Longer?
1. After buying flowers from the flower shop, gently remove the packaging making sure not to break any part of the flowers.
2. Prepare a clean vase or container. Make sure that it is really clean to avoid bacteria from ruining the quality of your flowers.
3. For roses particularly, it is best to remove the guard petals. These are the first 3 outer layers of petals that surround and support the delicate inner petals of the rose.
4. Make sure to remove the leaves below the water line. Leaves that submerge on the water will rot easily causing the formation of bacteria that will shorten the life span of your flowers.
5. Cut the stems using a sharp knife. Cut it diagonally to have more stem surface area. This helps increase the water uptake. For roses, it is also recommended to crush and split the bottom of their woody stems to help take up more water. Re cut the stems after 2-3 days for long lasting displays. It is best to cut the stems underwater to prevent air from getting into the stem tissues causing the cells to plug up.
6. Put flower foods in the water like sugar or crushed aspirin to add life to your flowers.
7. Change the water every 2 days to avoid building up bacteria in the water.
8. Keep cut flowers away from fruits because they release a gas that causes your flowers to age faster.
9. Keep them in cool places. Avoid exposing them from direct sunlight and place them far from appliances like computers, televisions, refrigerators and the like. These will cause excess water loss from your flowers, and they will wilt very quickly.
