Fresh cut flowers bring beauty into any space, but proper care is what keeps them vibrant. Many people unintentionally shorten the life of their bouquets with small mistakes that are easy to avoid. This guide explains how to care for fresh cut flowers, how to make your bouquet last longer, and how to get the most from every arrangement.

1. Do not leave flowers without water

Leaving flowers dry, even for a short time, causes stems to seal and hydration to drop quickly. For example, leaving a bouquet in the car for a couple of hours without water can drastically shorten its life. Always place your flowers in water as soon as you can.

2. Re-cut stems correctly

A fresh cut is essential, but the angle matters. Cutting straight across at 90 degrees limits water absorption.

Cutting at a 45-degree angle creates a larger surface area, which improves the stem’s ability to draw water. Use a sharp knife or floral shears for a clean, precise cut. Dull tools crush the stem and block hydration.

3. Cut enough length to remove trapped air bubbles

If stems have been out of water too long, an air pocket can form. If that air bubble travels up the stem and reaches the head, the flower collapses. Trimming only a tiny amount is not enough. Cut one to two inches off the bottom to release that air and restore proper suction. At Bouquetino, we provide wet packs and buckets during transport so your flowers stay hydrated on the way home.

4. Protect flowers from cold temperatures

In winter, even a few minutes in freezing weather can kill fresh flowers, even if they look fine at first. Cell structure breaks down immediately. We offer complimentary winter wrapping during cold months to protect your florals while you travel.

5. Remove cellophane quickly (especially in summer)

Cellophane traps heat and creates a greenhouse effect that ages flowers quickly. In summer, flowers can mature two to three times faster if left wrapped.

Remove all outer wrapping as soon as you get home and place the stems in water.

Avoid placing flowers:

• beside ripening fruit (apples and bananas release ethylene gas)

• in very warm rooms

• near fireplaces or heating vents

All of these speed up wilting.

6. Always use a clean vase

A vase with old residue or bacteria will contaminate the water and clog stems. Wash the vase thoroughly with soap and hot water before filling it.

7. Avoid home remedy myths

There is no need for sugar, vinegar, copper pennies, vodka or bleach. These methods can do more harm than good.

All fresh flowers need is:

• clean water

• a clean vase

• a fresh re-cut every few days

• water changes every two days

Simple care works better than DIY “tricks.”

8. Keep vase arrangements topped up

People often forget that vase arrangements still need water added regularly. Flowers drink quickly, especially during warm months. Check the water level every day.

9. Use room temperature water

Extremely hot or cold water shocks stems. Room temperature tap water works best for nearly all flowers.

10. Remove foliage that sits below the water line

Leaves submerged in water rot quickly and create bacteria. Strip any foliage that will fall below the waterline before placing the stems in the vase.

11. Know that different flowers prefer different water levels

Water needs differ between flower types.

Examples:

• Roses do best in tall vases with plenty of water.

• Calla lilies prefer very shallow water, often just an inch or two.

If you’re unsure, ask your florist for guidance.

12. Grocery store flowers are not always a bargain

Many people assume grocery store flowers are cheaper, but they often cost more in the long run. Grocery suppliers frequently accept dry-packed, low-grade shipments that professional florists refuse. Flowers may sit dry at loading docks, experience temperature shock, or be processed by untrained staff.

This results in shorter vase life and can make flowers seem “low quality” when the issue is poor handling. Buying from a trained florist ensures proper processing and superior freshness.

Final Thoughts

Caring for fresh cut flowers does not require complicated methods, only simple, consistent habits. With clean water, correct trimming, the right temperature and a little attention, your bouquet will stay beautiful much longer.

For inspiration for your next arrangement, explore our floral bouquets or fresh flower arrangements.