The Welcome Mat

Which fresh-cut flowers last the longest?

Fresh flowers are always nice to have around the house especially during the dreary parts of the year. Although the longevity of fresh-cut flowers varies depending on care, carnations and chrysanthemums seem to top most lists, each lasting between 7 and 14 days. These flowers are naturally hardier, take in more water and fight off bacteria more easily while in a vase.

Carnations and chrysanthemums are nice flowers, but when an occasion calls for roses, tulips or lilies you need to know how to make those flowers last longer than a couple of days. Fortunately, there are some tips and tricks for maximizing the life of these cut flowers.

The vase life of cut flowers is often shorter than desired because of two main reasons: bacteria from decaying leaves and nutrient loss from lack of water. When you get a bouquet of flowers, always put them in water as soon as possible. Just putting them in the refrigerator does little, if nothing, to keep them from dying.

Be sure to use a clean vase and fill it with warm water which is easier for flowers to drink. Generally, cut flowers from the store come with a packet of nutrients that will help your flowers last longer but if you cut them from your garden you can make a similar mixture using lemon-lime soda or lemon juice and sugar.

Remove any leaves that will be under water when you place them in the vase. Leaves under water level will deteriorate faster and leave behind bacteria that will kill the flowers faster. Take each flower, and under warm water, cut the stem on an angle. This will remove any possible clogging and allow water to flow easily up the stem. Don't mix daffodils with any other flowers. Once you cut the stem of a daffodil sap will drip out and clog the stems of all other flowers. In a few days, if you notice that your flowers are starting to droop, trim the stems again.

Once your flowers are arranged, place them in a cool area out of direct sunlight. Also remember, keep them away from drafts and do not place them on or near anything that could get warm. Keep an eye on the water level and refill as needed. After a week, empty out the old water and add new.

What tricks or tips do you have to make your flower bouquets last longer?