Fresh flowers are always a treat to receive or pick from your home garden. They’re special reminders of all the beautiful things in life, and they’re a natural way to bring life to your space. However, these ornaments are fleeting and wither after some time. Some flowers may last a few days before they lose their charm, while others may last for over a week.
Flowers are undeniably delicate little items that have a short shelf life, but there are many ways to keep their beauty and help them look as pretty as a picture for a longer amount of time. Here are some of the best tips to keep your blooms looking fresh and lively for longer:
Tip #1: Give the Stems a Snip before Placing Them in Water
Snipping the stems of your fresh flowers is always good advice—not just because you can put them in a dainty vase, but also because you’ll help them stay fresh. Doing so is an effective way to preserve their beauty because plants have vessels that draw water and nutrients up to nourish the flowers. By cutting the stems, you can shorten the routes and make water absorption more efficient for the blooms.
Cutting the stems is also crucial in removing trapped air that can block proper absorption. Make sure to snip them using a sharp and clean set of scissors or pruning shears, taking off at least half an inch off the bottom of the plants’ stems. Making diagonal cuts also helps the plant absorb more water and nutrients.
After cutting the stems, you can then submerge them in a container of fresh water.
Tip #2: Keep Them in the Right Spot
Although your flowers may look good in that bright, sunny spot near the window, the sun’s rays may cause them to dehydrate more quickly. Your blooms will last longer in cooler temperatures away from direct sunlight. Some even recommend leaving them in the fridge overnight.
Make sure to also keep them away from appliances and fixtures that may dry them out, such as open windows, heating systems, air conditioners, or cooling vents.
If you’re placing your fresh flowers in the kitchen, make sure to keep them away from fruits. This is because ripening fruits release natural compounds called ethylene gas, which may wilt your blossoms more quickly.
Tip #3: Change the Water Regularly
Your flowers will thrive in fresh, clean water that’s rich in oxygen. Still water can quickly lose its oxygen content and turn slightly acidic if you leave it out for long periods, so it’s best to change it regularly, such as every two days.
Tip #4: Remove Dead or Dying Parts
While this may come naturally to some, many people just leave dead and dying petals and foliage to wilt beside their fresh arrangement. However, it’s best to remove any part that’s fading, dying, or already dead to extend the beauty of the other flowers.
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Flowers are beautiful additions to your home, whether freshly picked off your garden or a gift from a loved one. Preserving their charm is always a challenge, but with the right care and knowledge, you can enjoy their beauty for as long as possible. If you’re looking for the best gardening and home design tips, Blossom & Broom has you covered. We’ll provide you with expert knowledge on how to keep your house and garden full of life and inspiration. Browse our topics today!
