Flower arrangements are a fantastic way to add beauty and vibrancy to any space. Whether it's a stunning bouquet for your coffee table or a thoughtful gift from a loved one, you’d want them to last for a long time. Preserving the longevity of these delicate blooms is key to enjoying their enchanting presence for as long as possible.
Here are some practical tips that will help you get the most out of your floral arrangement and keep them looking fresh and lovely for days on end.
Choose Quality Flowers
The first step in extending the lifespan of your floral arrangements is to start with quality flowers. Ensure that the blooms you choose from your florist are fresh and healthy. Inspect the petals and leaves for signs of wilting or browning. Request flowers that are still in bud form or have recently opened to give them more time to bloom in your home. The team of experienced florists at flowerdose in Camberwell, Victoria, utilise quality fresh flowers which are sourced locally to the area.
Buy Flowers Grown in Your Local Area
Opt for locally grown flowers to enhance the longevity of your arrangements. Freshly cut and better adapted to your region's climate, they offer unique blooms and eco-friendly choices, supporting the community while reducing its carbon footprint.
Use a Clean Vase
Before placing the flowers in the vase, wash them thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Rinse it well to remove any residue or bacteria that could harm the flowers. Avoid using vases that have previously held other arrangements without proper cleaning. This can introduce harmful microorganisms that shorten the lifespan of the new flowers.
Trim and Prune
Cut about an inch from the bottom of each stem using sharp, clean scissors or floral shears at a 45-degree angle. This angled cut allows the flowers to absorb water more effectively and prevents them from sitting flat at the bottom of the vase, which can block water uptake.
Additionally, remove any leaves or foliage submerged in water in the vase. These submerged leaves can deteriorate quickly, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. Leave only the upper leaves on the stems to preserve the overall health of the arrangement.
Arrange the Flowers
Begin by arranging the tallest flowers in the center and gradually add the shorter ones towards the outside. This layering technique ensures all flowers receive proper exposure and access to water. At flowerdose in Camberwell, our arrangements are designed to not only look amazing, but they are also arranged in the same way to ensure longevity.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
While flowers love sunlight, direct exposure to harsh sunlight can cause them to wilt prematurely. Place your flower arrangement where it can receive bright, indirect light throughout the day. This way, you'll protect the delicate petals and keep the colors vibrant longer.
Additionally, ensure that your flowers are not placed near heat sources like radiators or air conditioning vents, as extreme temperature changes can also lead to wilting.
Change the Water
Change the water every two days and replace the water with fresh, room-temperature water. Before rearranging, re-trim the stems by an inch to remove any potential blockages or air bubbles that could prevent water absorption.
Also, consider adding flower food. Flower food typically contains a mixture of nutrients, biocides, and acidifiers that help to nourish the flowers and inhibit bacterial growth.
Proper Care for Specific Flower Types
Flowers have varying care requirements, and knowing how to care for specific types can significantly impact their lifespan. For example, some flowers, like roses and tulips, continue to grow even after being cut.
On the other hand, delicate flowers like orchids benefit from being cut above a node and submerged in water for a few seconds to help them absorb moisture.
Pressing Flowers
With a bit of care and attention, you can make your flower arrangements last longer and enjoy their beauty for days or weeks.
Do you want to cherish your flowers for a long time? Consider drying or pressing them. Dried flowers can be displayed in vases, while pressed flowers can be used in art projects or as beautiful keepsakes.
Find Those Perfect Flowers in Camberwell
For the freshest and most vibrant flower arrangements that last longer, contact flowerdose today. Our locally grown, fresh blooms are sure to brighten up your space and bring joy for days to come.