How to Care for Your Flowers

There’s nothing quite like the joy of receiving a bouquet of fresh flowers. Their colours, fragrance and elegance can transform any space and lift the mood instantly. But many people experience the same frustration — those gorgeous blooms start wilting far too quickly. The truth is, with the right care, cut flowers can last much longer than you might expect.

Caring for flowers isn’t complicated, but it does require a little knowledge and attention. By following proven florist techniques, you can keep your arrangements vibrant, healthy and beautiful for days — sometimes even weeks.

Start with Clean Vases & Tools

One of the most overlooked steps in flower care is vase preparation. Bacteria is the number one enemy of cut flowers, and even a small amount can shorten their lifespan. Always start with a spotless vase, rinsed thoroughly with warm water and mild soap. If possible, sterilise it with a small splash of bleach, then rinse well.

When cutting stems, use sharp, clean scissors or secateurs. A jagged cut from dull blades can damage the stem, preventing proper water absorption. Keeping your tools clean also reduces the chance of spreading bacteria between arrangements.

Trim Stems the Right Way

Once your vase is ready, trim the stems at a 45-degree angle. This angled cut creates more surface area for water uptake, helping your flowers stay hydrated. Cut about 2 to 3 centimetres off the bottom of each stem, and always trim under running water or submerge the stem in water while cutting. This prevents air bubbles — known as embolisms — from forming in the stem, which can block water flow.

For woody stems, such as roses or hydrangeas, an extra tip is to gently crush the bottom with a hammer after cutting. This opens up the stem fibres and allows even better hydration.

Remove Excess Leaves

Any leaves sitting below the waterline should be removed before placing flowers in the vase. Submerged foliage quickly decomposes, creating bacteria that cloud the water and shorten flower life. By stripping away lower leaves, you not only keep the water clean but also redirect the plant’s energy into nourishing the blooms themselves.

Use Flower Food Wisely

Many professional bouquets come with a sachet of flower food — and for good reason. These powders contain a mix of sugar, acidifiers and antibacterial agents that feed the flowers, balance water pH and reduce bacterial growth. Always follow the instructions and mix the packet into fresh water before adding your flowers.

If you don’t have commercial flower food, you can make a simple version at home. Combine a teaspoon of sugar (for energy), a teaspoon of white vinegar or lemon juice (to lower pH), and a few drops of household bleach (to kill bacteria).

Keep Flowers Cool & Hydrated

Temperature and environment play a huge role in flower longevity. Flowers last longer when kept in a cool room, away from direct sunlight, heaters and draughts. Avoid placing arrangements near ripening fruit — bananas and apples release ethylene gas that speeds up wilting.

Check the water daily, topping it up as needed. Every two to three days, empty the vase, clean it again, trim the stems and replace with fresh water. This routine removes bacteria and keeps your flowers in peak condition.

Give Each Type What it Needs

Different flowers have slightly different needs. Tulips, for example, continue to grow even after cutting and will curve toward light — keep them in tall vases with plenty of water. Roses are prone to air blockages, so always cut them under water. Hydrangeas benefit from soaking their whole heads in cool water for a few minutes if they start to droop. Understanding these quirks allows you to adjust care for each type.

The Finishing Touch: Enjoy Them Daily

Ultimately, flowers are meant to be enjoyed. Don’t hide them away in the coolest room of the house if it means you’ll rarely see them. Instead, balance care with enjoyment — place them where they’ll brighten your day, and simply commit to refreshing the water and trimming stems as part of your routine.

Conclusion

Caring for fresh flowers is both an art and a science. With clean vases, angled cuts, fresh water, flower food and the right environment, your arrangements will stay vibrant far longer than you might think. For expert floral designs and advice, J'adore Flowers & Gifts proudly serves Cairns with fresh, carefully crafted bouquets for every occasion.

Call (07) 4033 1516 or visit our contact page to order or learn more about keeping your flowers beautiful for longer.