Florists Advice

To make your flowers that you receive from a florist last as long as possible we have some advice for you that will help the longevity of your flowers.

When you have received your flowers take off the wrapping and prepare your flowers. You will need to re-cut the stems of the flowers and it is best to do so while they are submerged in water. This helps in preventing air locks in the stems and if you cut them at an angle there is more surface area for them to draw up water.
Use a clean vase for your flowers so as to prevent any bacteria building up on the flowers.
Use luke warm water in the vase instead of cold as it contains less oxygen that can cause bubbles in the stem.
Use a plant food that is available from your florist and is often supplied with a bouquet of flowers. This will feed the flowers but also reduce bacteria and encourage buds to open.
Remove any leaves from the stems that are likely to be submerged in the water. They will decompose in the water if they are left.
Your flowers will last longer if your arrangement is away from any draughts and direct sunlight. If the flowers are in a cool room it will maximise the life of your flowers.
Keep the water in the vase topped up regularly but try to avoid changing the water unless you have more food to add to the new water.
Remove any dying flowers from the arrangement as these can release toxins into the water.

For more information about how to care for specific flowers then get in touch with your local florist and they will be able to offer more advice.