Getting fresh cut flowers as a bouquet or flower arrangement is a wonderful gift whether it comes from a loved one or you just treat yourself. It’s something you want to last as long as possible.

While we use only the freshest flowers at Carithers, there are still steps that you can take to make those flowers last as long as possible. Here are our tips for enjoying them for many days to come.

Water First

If they have not arrived in water through our hand delivery service or you bought loose flowers from us, the first thing you should is get the flowers in water. The stems are their life support system, so as soon as you can get water flowing through them, the better.

Check Water Temperature

Don’t put the fresh cut flowers in cold water. Preferably, it should be room temperature or warm. The container where the flowers will be arranged should be a third to a half full. If the water is higher and comes into contact with the foliage, this foliage will rot after constant contact with the water so the water line should be below that.

Give the Flowers a Little Space

Don’t crowd the flowers together in the container. They need room to breathe by allowing air to circulate in between them. Also, this will save the flowers from getting bruised or crushed. Short-stemmed flowers should go in a shorter container while you can use a taller one for any long-stemmed varieties.

Condition the Flowers

For fresh-cut loose flowers that you have bought, once you put them in water, lave them for five hours or more in the water before arranging them. This process is called conditioning and it allows the stems to fill up with water so they look crisp and fresh. When you do this before arranging them, the flowers are known to last twice as long as those that have not been conditioned.

Feed the Flowers

Add flower food to the water. This preservative and source of nourishment can be bought at a supermarket or garden center. This helps extend the life of the flowers while also reducing the chances for bacteria to grow.

Change Water Frequently and Re-Cut Stems

Regularly change the water and trim the stems to ensure the flowers have the freshest environment, and you will be sure to enjoy them for a longer time.