1. Cut the stems at an angle
In most cases the florist you buy your bouquet from will already have done this. Nevertheless, it is a useful tip to keep your flowers fresh for longer. Flowers are cut to create a new opening through which water can be absorbed. The larger this surface, the better. Cutting at an angle creates a larger surface area than a straight cut, which means that the flowers can absorb more water. It is also advisable to cut the stems several times throughout the life of your bouquet. Look at it this way, you don’t drink from the same glass every day of the week either!
2. Keep the water clear and free from leaves
Your bouquet may shed some leaves that drop into the water. They then decompose and infect the water, which is why it needs to be changed. Decomposed leaves can lead to fungi and infections that shorten the life of your bouquet.
3. Changing the water
It is advisable to refill your vase every day, irrespective of the condition of the water. This will ensure that your bouquet remains healthy by absorbing clean water. If you don’t do this, micro-organisms may develop and contaminate the water so that the condition of your flowers deteriorates.
4. Give your bouquet its rightful place in the room
Similar to furniture, there is always a perfect place for a bouquet. What should definitely be avoided?
- Draughts.
- Too much sun.
- A place that is easily accessible to pets.
- On the floor, where it becomes a tripping hazard.
5. Flowers and fruit should be separated
Fruit is the ultimate ‘seducer’ when it comes to flowers. Fruit entices flowers to show off their potential as quickly as possible so that they bloom much more quickly. How does this happen? Fruit produces ethylene gas that shortens the life of your flowers. So, don't allow the fruit you keep in your home to ‘kidnap’ your fresh flowers!
6. Ensure that your flowers don’t ‘starve’
Another goodie provided by your florist is a packet of flower food. This should be added to the water when you put the bouquet in a vase to keep it in good condition. Beware of overdoing it though as an overdose of flower food can ‘singe’ the stems.
7. Flowers don’t like to be overcrowded
Flowers like space to bloom. Make sure that your vase is large enough so that your bouquet is not overcrowded. This will give flowers space to bloom and develop.
For more tips visit our website: www.natuurlijkbloemen.be or e-mail us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Kind regards,
Your Flower Blogger.