How to keep your flowers fresher for longer

Here are 6 tips to help you keep your flowers fresher for longer:

Buy locally-grown flowers

Locally grown flowers will have been picked very recently and not travelled far to reach you – have a look at the Flowers from the Farm website for your nearest grower. We have a range of flower options for local (Rye, East Sussex) delivery. Check them out here. Fresh flowers from Easter to the end of October.

Clean Vase and Fresh Water:

Start with a clean vase to prevent the growth of bacteria. Bacteria can clog the flower stems and reduce water uptake.

Use fresh, room temperature water. Avoid using water that is too cold, as it can shock the flowers.

Trim the Stems:

Trim the stems at a diagonal angle using sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cutting at an angle provides a larger surface area for water absorption.

Trim the stems underwater to prevent air bubbles from forming in the cut end, which can block water uptake.

Remove Leaves Below the Water Line:

Remove any leaves or foliage that will be submerged in water. Submerged leaves can promote bacterial growth and decay, affecting the freshness of the flowers.

Use Flower Food:

If your flowers come with a packet of flower food, use it according to the instructions. Flower food provides essential nutrients and helps inhibit the growth of bacteria in the water.

If you don’t have flower food, you can make a homemade solution by adding a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of bleach to the water. The sugar serves as a nutrient, and the bleach helps prevent bacterial growth.

Change Water Regularly:

Change the water in the vase every 2-3 days. Fresh water helps keep the flowers hydrated and reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.

Each time you change the water, re-trim the stems to ensure they can continue to absorb water effectively.

By following these tips, you can extend the freshness and lifespan of your cut flowers. Keep in mind that different flowers may have specific care requirements, so it’s a good idea to check for any specific guidelines for the particular flowers you have.