A flower arrangement is the perfect way to commemorate a special occasion, add a pop of color and natural beauty to a room, or just let someone know you're thinking of them. But unlike the the sentiment behind them, flowers don't last forever. Fortunately, you can take steps to ensure your flowers last as long as possible.

How to Make Flower Arrangements Last Longer

1. Cut & Prune

After receiving flowers, check that the bottoms of the stems are cut at 45-degree angles. This position exposes the stems to more water than they would get if they were sitting flush against the bottom of the vase, allowing for maximum moisture intake and absorption.

Also, prune any leaves below the waterline. Pruning inhibits bacterial growth that can endanger the health of the flowers, and it makes the entire arrangement look cleaner.

2. Add Floral Preservative

When flowers are still in the ground, their leaves provide nourishment produced during the process of photosynthesis. But once flowers are cut, most of the leaves are removed, which prevents the stems and blooms from getting vital nutrients. Sucrose, also known as table sugar, is one of these nutrients, so add some to your arrangement.

Dissolve three tablespoons of sugar and two tablespoons of white vinegar in a quart of warm water. Fill the vase with the mixture. Ensure that at least three inches of the stems are covered.

3. Display Them in a Cool Place

Exposure to too much heat will drastically shorten the life span of most fresh-cut flowers. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from open windows, vents, and heat-generating appliances, including electronics.

Place them away from ripening fruit as well; as fruit matures, it releases a gas that makes flowers bloom and fade more quickly.

When you need beautiful fresh flowers in the Honolulu, HI, area, trust Watanabe Floral, Inc. Since 1946, they’ve been Hawaii's largest retail florist with two showrooms on Oahu. Schedule a convenient flower delivery by calling (808) 832-9360, or visit them online to discover all their stunning floral designs.