There's nothing sadder than watching a beautiful bouquet wilt too soon. With proper care, most fresh flowers can last 7-10 days or even longer! Follow these proven techniques from our flower experts to maximize the life of your blooms.
5 Essential Steps for Longer-Lasting Flowers
1 Trim the Stems Properly
Why: Fresh cuts allow better water absorption
- Cut stems at a 45-degree angle using sharp scissors or knife
- Remove 1-2 inches from the bottom
- Re-cut stems every 2-3 days when changing water
- Never use dull tools - they crush stems and block water flow
2 Use Clean, Fresh Water
Why: Bacteria in dirty water clogs stems
- Use room temperature water (not cold, not hot)
- Fill vase 3/4 full
- Change water completely every 2-3 days
- Clean vase with soap each time you change water
3 Remove Lower Leaves
Why: Submerged leaves rot and breed bacteria
- Strip all leaves that would sit below waterline
- Keep upper leaves for beauty
- Remove any wilted or yellowing leaves immediately
4 Find the Perfect Spot
Why: Environment affects lifespan dramatically
- Cool, indirect light location
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Keep away from heat sources (stoves, heaters)
- Don't place near ripening fruit (releases ethylene gas)
- Avoid drafty areas (aircon vents, fans)
5 Add Flower Food
Why: Provides nutrients and fights bacteria
Option A: Use the packet that came with your flowers
Option B: DIY flower food recipe:
- 1 liter water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (feeds flowers)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar or lemon juice (lowers pH)
- 1/2 teaspoon bleach (kills bacteria)
Flower-Specific Care Tips
If longevity is what you are after, start with the right flower. Our lily bouquets and rose bouquets hold up best of anything we stock.
Roses
- Remove guard petals (outer petals that protect bud)
- Mist petals daily with water
- Can last 7-12 days with proper care
Lilies
- Remove pollen stamens to prevent staining
- Open blooms last 3-5 days, buds will continue opening
- Overall vase life: 7-10 days
Tulips
- Keep water level low (2-3 inches only)
- They continue growing in vase - retrim as needed
- Can last 5-7 days
Sunflowers
- Need lots of water - check daily
- Heavy heads may need stem support
- Can last 6-12 days
- Cloudy or smelly water = Change immediately
- Drooping heads = Re-cut stems, fresh water
- Yellowing leaves = Remove them
- Wilted petals = Not salvageable, remove from bouquet
Bonus Tips
- Refrigerate overnight: If you're going out, put bouquet in fridge (away from fruit). Can extend life by days!
- Use flower preservative spray: Available at florist shops
- Don't overcrowd: Give flowers space to breathe in vase
- Act fast: The sooner you care for flowers after receiving them, the longer they'll last
Get Fresh Flowers Delivered Today
All our bouquets come with care instructions and flower food packets. Order before 2 PM for same-day delivery across Singapore!
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