How to Prolong the Life of Cut Flowers and Plants

Proper care and maintenance are key to ensuring that your cut flowers and plants remain vibrant and beautiful for as long as possible. This guide provides extensive tips on prolonging the lifespan of cut flowers and caring for plants, ensuring they thrive for weeks to come.

Florist and Flower Quality

The first and foremost factor in prolonging the life of cut flowers is to buy from a professional florist with expert knowledge and expertise. Opt for regular deliveries from these florists, as fresh flowers delivered within 2-3 days will ensure you have quality blooms. The average lifespan of cut flowers after purchase is about 7-10 days, although this can vary based on the type of flower and environmental conditions.

Proper Transport and Storage

Once you bring your flowers home, it is essential to keep them in water as quickly as possible. Cut flowers should be placed in a jar filled with water to prevent their stems from closing and protecting themselves. Store the flowers in a cool environment, away from direct heat sources such as radiators and kitchens. Avoid placing them near fruit bowls, as ripe fruits like bananas and apples emit ethylene gas, which can hasten the wilting of flowers.

Flower Preparation

For optimal care, always use spotlessly clean vases. Thoroughly clean used vases with hot soapy water and a bit of bleach. If your flowers have been out of water for an extended period, trim their stems by about 2cm, preferably diagonally to increase the surface area and promote water absorption. Fill the vase with clean water up to two-thirds full and remove any broken stems or leaves that will be submerged.

Daily Care and Maintenance

Engage in daily maintenance by removing any wilting or dead stems, leaves, or buds. Change the water every other day, or top it up if necessary. Every few days, trim the stems to about 2cm and remove any leaves that fall below the water line. After three days, replace the water with a fresh solution of flower food, which can be homemade or purchased. For those inclined to DIY, here is a simple but effective recipe for flower food:

2 tablespoons of lemon juice 1 tablespoon of sugar a teaspoon of bleach 1 litre of cool water

Combine the lemon juice and sugar, and mix the resulting solution with the bleach in the cool water. Pour two tablespoons of this mixture into a vase of water and store the rest out of reach of children and pets in a labeled jar.

Additional Care Tips

Keep your cut flowers and plants away from children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion of homemade flower food, which is not safe for human consumption. Regular maintenance, combined with attention to proper storage and preparation, significantly extends the life of your flowers and ensures a beautiful display for weeks to come.