How To Take Care of Flowers Fresh From Delivery

There’s a knock on your door, and *surprise* someone sent you flowers! They’re beautiful, and you want to keep them looking as fresh as when they arrived. These are the first proper steps you need to take right after the delivery to maintain your flowers longevity in a vase.

1) Start with a clean vase + fresh water

If your flowers came in plastic, remove this as soon as possible. Bacteria and fungi are everywhere and are ready to enter the cut surface of the stem and multiply that results in inhibiting water uptake; therefore a clean vase and fresh water will prevent bacteria from affecting the flowers. Always use room temperature, clean water as most flowers take in warm water more efficiently than cold. 

2) Use Flower Food

Commercial fresh flower food will increase the life of cut flowers and should always be used, these formula's are scientifically developed, carefully balanced mixtures. Follow the directions on the package and always use the recommended amount.

3) Cut Stems & Remove Foliage

Re-cut the stems at an angle removing at least one inch of the stem. Always use a sharp knife or clippers rather than scissors as this will avoid crushing the stem and therefore the vascular system. Leaves that will be submerged in water must be removed, or else it will deteriorate and rot. These decaying leaves will invite bacteria that will affect your flowers longevity.  

4) Placement

Keep fresh flowers away from intense temperatures, which can quickly dry out the flowers and cause wilting. Similarly, avoid placing in an area with direct sunlight as that will result in damage from overheating. Moreover, do not place your flowers near fruit or in the path of cigarette smoke. The ethylene gas is detrimental to many flower types.

Following these tips will help in long-lasting fresh floral arrangements right after delivery. Enjoy!