When you receive or buy flowers, you probably debate how long they will last before they have to hit the trash can. Some seem to last forever, while others are gone the next day. There are various reasons cut flowers last as long as they do--from the care to the environment to the type of flower.
Cut
Flower stems cut a specific way last longer than those with horizontal cuts. To trim the stems, place the flowers on their sides. With a sharp knife, cut an inch or so off of the bottom of the stems at a 45-degree angle. This creates a bigger surface at the bottom and allows the stems to absorb more water. The angle also prevents the stems from resting flat on the bottom of the vase, which limits the amount of water that can be absorbed. If possible, cut the stems while they are submerged and this will result in even more water absorption.
Bacteria
Bacteria can shorten a flower's lifespan because it clogs the tiny channels that transport water to the flower. As soon as a cut flower is placed into water, bacteria starts to grow. As many as 30 million bacteria can pop up in the vase's water within three hours. Keep your vase and water clean. Also, remove any dead leaves or fronds that have fallen off of your flowers and into the water; this can result in the formation of bacteria.
Water Type
The water that you put a cut plant in makes all the difference. If you put your flowers in lukewarm water, which contains less oxygen than cold water, your flowers will live longer. This limits the number of air bubbles that form in the stem's vessels. When bubbles form in the vessels, this limits or blocks water uptake, causing them to die sooner.
Soft water is a better bet than hard water, because it contains fewer minerals and is more acidic. It easily flows through the vascular cells , promoting the life of your flower.
Genetics
Some flowers simply last longer than other. Carnations can live up to three weeks or more, whereas other flowers, such as jasmine, will only last a few hours. The length of a flower's life is based on its genetics, in addition to how it is handled and cared for once cut. Chrysanthemums have a relatively long vase life, up to four weeks at times.
Carnations tend to last a long time, whereas roses have a shorter vase life. Gerberas, lilies, lisianthus, tulips and roses need to be kept out of direct sunlight, and you should avoid moving your flowers around. Put them in a good location and leave them there.
If you receive tropical flowers, such as Anthuriums or orchids, know that they are susceptible to low-temperature damage. The petals of these flowers can dry out quickly.
Recommendations
Leave your flower arrangement in the wet foam if it arrived that way, and add the provided packet of floral food. If the water solution becomes cloudy, pour it out and use fresh (lukewarm) water.
You can also re-cut the stems another inch or so to prolong the life of the flower.
Keep the flowers in a cool area that ranges in temperature from 62 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid putting them in direct sunlight.
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