Nothing is instantly gratifying as fresh flowers. They can instantly beautify your room. However, they start to fade in a few days. Unless well taken care of. These tips will make your bouquet last longer.

Trim the stems immediately

Just received a flower delivery from Avas Flowers or other floral service?

• Find a sharp pair of scissors. A knife will also work.
• Slice each stem at the bottom. Approximately 1-2 cm. 
• Ensure you use a 45-degree angle.

The goal is to get an angled cut. It prevents the stem from lying flat at the base of the vase. This will boost water uptake.

But we are not done here. You should also re-trim the stems every 2 or 3 days. This will maintain the hydration.

Use clean water

First of all, avoid hot water. Secondly, avoid very cold water. Extreme temperatures can shock the flowers. Just use room-temperature water.

Do this before putting the flowers in the vase:

• Clean it thoroughly. Use soap and water.
• Rinse well. This will remove any residue.

A dirty vase can harbor bacteria. This is one of the main causes of early wilting. 

In addition, replace the water daily. Or at least every two days. Fresh water retards bacterial growth. It will keep your hand bouquet fresh flower arrangement hydrated.

Cut the leaves below the waterline

When leaves are in water, they rot fast. Thereby, promoting bacterial growth. Take out any leaves that will be under the water level.

This will enhance water purity. In turn, it prolongs the flowers’ freshness.

Add flower food

Some florists provide a small pack of nutrients. Apply it as instructed. Flower food is usually composed of:

• Sugar: It nourishes the blooms
• Acidifier: It maintains PH balance.
• Anti-microbial agents: They slow down microbes.

The food is not a must-have. However, change the water regularly.

Place the vase in a cool place

Heat accelerates dehydration. Place your bouquet away from:

• Direct sunlight

• Heaters or air conditioners
• Appliances with heating capabilities
• Warmth-generating electronics.

An indirectly lit cool room is preferable. You can also cool the bouquet at night. This will extend its freshness.

Avoid fruit proximity

Fresh fruit emits ethylene gas. This accelerates the wilting of flowers. Do not leave your bouquet in a fruit bowl. Or a kitchen counter where the fruits are kept.

Even low doses of ethylene can reduce the life span of fragile flowers.

Take away wilted flowers early

When a flower starts wilting, take it out. Wilting flowers spread bacteria into the water. This affects the whole bouquet.

Check the arrangement regularly. And dispose of any damaged stems or petals.

Lightly mist some flowers

Some flowers need to be sprayed softly. Especially in dry indoor settings. Spray gently with a fine spray bottle. Do not over-saturate the petals.

However, not every flower needs this. Thus, observe how your arrangement reacts.

The final word

These measures will stretch out the beauty of your bouquet for a few more days.