How to Take Care of Your Flower Arrangement to Make It Last Longer

Valentine Flower Arrangement

1. Unpack with Care

When your flower arrangement arrives, handle it gently. If it’s in a vase, ensure the water hasn't spilled and that the flowers are arranged securely. If it's wrapped, carefully remove the wrapping to avoid damaging delicate petals and stems.

2. Trim the Stems

Cutting the stems is one of the most important steps to prolonging the life of your flowers. Using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or garden shears, trim 1-2 inches off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. This allows the flowers to absorb water more efficiently. Repeat this every few days.

3. Choose the Right Vase and Water

Ensure your vase is clean and large enough for the arrangement to fit comfortably. Fill it with room-temperature water. Avoid using hot or cold water as extreme temperatures can shock the flowers.

4. Add Flower Food

Flower food packets, often provided with arrangements, contain nutrients and antibacterial agents to keep your blooms fresh. Dissolve the packet completely in the water. If you don’t have flower food, you can make your own by mixing a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of bleach into a quart of water.

5. Keep the Water Fresh

Change the water every two to three days to prevent bacterial growth. Rinse the vase thoroughly and refill it with fresh water and flower food each time. Re-trim the stems before placing the flowers back in the vase.

6. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat

Place your arrangement in a cool area away from direct sunlight, heaters, or appliances that emit heat. Flowers thrive in a stable, cool environment. Avoid areas with drafts or vents, as fluctuating temperatures can shorten their lifespan.

7. Remove Wilting Flowers

As some flowers naturally wilt over time, remove them promptly. Wilting blooms can release ethylene gas, which accelerates the aging of the surrounding flowers.

8. Keep Away from Ripening Fruits

Ripening fruits, like bananas and apples, release ethylene gas. To prevent your flowers from aging prematurely, keep your arrangement away from any fruit bowl.

9. Mist the Flowers

For arrangements without a water source, like floral foam, lightly mist the blooms with water every day. This adds moisture and keeps the petals hydrated.

With a little extra care, you can make the most of your floral arrangement and enjoy its beauty for days longer. At Goodlove Arts, we believe flowers bring joy and life to every moment—and with these tips, yours will, too!