Keep Your Blooms Beautiful Longer

There's nothing quite like a fresh bouquet of flowers brightening up your home. Whether you've just received a stunning arrangement from Exotic Flowers & Gifts or picked up a bouquet for yourself, a little care goes a long way in keeping your flowers vibrant and fragrant for as long as possible.

1. Trim the Stems

As soon as you get your flowers home, trim about 2–3 cm off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water absorption and prevents the stems from sitting flat on the bottom of the vase, which can block water uptake. Use sharp scissors or a floral knife — never tear or crush the stems.

2. Use Clean Water and a Clean Vase

Bacteria are the number one enemy of cut flowers. Always start with a thoroughly cleaned vase and fresh, cool water. Change the water every two days and re-trim the stems each time. If your bouquet came with a flower food packet, use it — it contains nutrients and a mild antibacterial agent that significantly extends vase life.

3. Remove Leaves Below the Waterline

Any leaves submerged in water will rot quickly, introducing bacteria that shorten the life of your entire arrangement. Before placing flowers in the vase, strip all foliage that would sit below the water level.

4. Find the Right Spot

Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and ripening fruit. Ethylene gas released by fruit accelerates the aging of flowers. A cool spot with indirect light is ideal — many flowers actually last longer in a cooler room.

5. Mist Delicate Blooms

Flowers like hydrangeas and lilacs can absorb water through their petals. A light misting once a day helps keep them hydrated and perky, especially in dry indoor environments.

Flower-Specific Tips

• Roses: Re-cut stems under running water to prevent air bubbles from blocking water uptake.
• Tulips: They continue to grow after cutting — trim regularly and keep in a tall vase for support.
• Lilies: Remove the pollen-covered stamens to prevent staining and extend bloom life.
• Sunflowers: These are thirsty flowers — check water levels daily.

When to Let Go

Even with the best care, cut flowers have a natural lifespan. Most mixed bouquets last 7–10 days. When individual stems start to fade, remove them so they don't affect the remaining blooms. You can often extend the life of hardier stems like carnations or chrysanthemums even after roses have faded.

Ready for a fresh arrangement? Browse our seasonal bouquets and let us deliver beauty right to your door in Milton and the surrounding area.