Receiving a gift of beautiful flowers is sure to brighten anyone’s day, so you naturally want to make that beauty last as long as possible. While they won’t last forever, you can take a few steps to get the most out of your bouquet. Here are just a few ways to prevent your flowers from fading too soon.  

How Can I Make My Flowers Last Longer?

1. Know How to Cut Stems

Because the cut flowers no longer have roots, they absorb water through their stems. Cutting stems at a sharp angle actually helps the flower draw in more water, which keeps it fresh. Trimming stems every few days or so also helps the flower draw in water more efficiently.

2. Remove Wilted Flowers in the Bouquet

When keeping different types of flowers in the same vase, some will die off sooner than others. Dead flowers release ethylene gas, which can actually cause fresh flowers nearby to wilt. Removing wilted flowers immediately will keep the remaining blooms fresh in the vase. 

3. Keep Your Bouquet Cool

External factors also affect the longevity of your flowers. Heat and sunlight expedite wilting, so keep your vase in a cool area of your home. While you may be tempted to place your flowers in a window for access to sunlight, this can actually have the opposite of the intended effect. 

4. Choose the Right Flowers

If you’re purchasing your own flowers for the home, be selective about what you pick. Certain cut varieties, including carnations, orchids, and lilies, tend to have a longer life span than others. For example, tulips are more sensitive to heat than the flowers mentioned here, which means they typically have a shorter shelf-life. 

A skilled florist will help you make the best selection, both in terms of style and longevity. Lexington Florist has provided gorgeous arrangements to local customers for more than four decades. As a family-owned and -operated florist, they take pride in every arrangement they complete. They’re also glad to use their extensive floral knowledge to provide tips on flower care, including the best varieties to buy. Call (803) 359-6097 for more information or visit the website to see their current selection.