How To Not Kill Your Flowers

Expert tips to keep your blooms fresh and beautiful

Basic Flower Care

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Fresh water daily

Change water every day to prevent bacterial growth

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Trim stems regularly

Cut stems at a 45° angle every 2–3 days

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Keep cool

Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources

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Remove foliage

Strip leaves below the waterline to keep water clean

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Avoid drafts

Keep away from fans and air conditioning vents

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Separate from fruit

Ethylene gas from fruit accelerates wilting

Flower Lifespan Guide

Roses
5–7 days
Tulips
5–7 days
Hydrangeas
5–7 days
Lilies
7–10 days
Sunflowers
7–10 days
Gerberas
7–10 days
Peonies
3–5 days
Carnations
10–14 days
Chrysanthemums
14–21 days
Orchids
7–14 days

Specific Flower Care

Keep vase very full of water, as they are extremely thirsty flowers

Trim stems frequently to maintain water uptake

Hydrangeas absorb water through both stems and petals

Why it matters:

They dehydrate quickly and wilt easily

Pro tip:

Fully submerge the flower head in water for 30–60 minutes to revive

Use a low water level to prevent stem rot

Trim stems regularly as they continue to grow after cutting

Keep in a cool environment away from heat

Why it matters:

Tulips remain active and will keep growing and moving

Pro tip:

Bending and curving is natural behaviour, not a sign of dying

Remove stamens once the flower opens to prevent pollen stains

Change water frequently to maintain cleanliness

Why it matters:

Pollen can stain surfaces and petals easily

Pro tip:

Keep away from fabrics and note they are toxic to cats

Trim stems every 2 days to maintain hydration

Remove outer guard petals for a cleaner look

Why it matters:

Blocked stems lead to drooping (bent neck)

Pro tip:

Recut stems and place in warm water to revive bent roses

Use moderate water levels and avoid overwatering

Can be left to air dry naturally

Why it matters:

Excess moisture can cause mould

Pro tip:

Let them dry completely for a preserved look

Keep in a cool environment to slow blooming

Change water daily to maintain freshness

Why it matters:

Peonies bloom quickly and have a short lifespan

Pro tip:

Rinse buds gently under water if they are not opening

Keep vase very full of water due to thick stems

Trim stems regularly

Why it matters:

They consume large amounts of water

Pro tip:

Drooping often means dehydration, not death

Use a low water level to prevent stem softening

Keep stems clean and supported

Why it matters:

Soft stems are prone to bending

Pro tip:

Use a narrow vase or support to keep them upright

Change water regularly

Trim stems every few days

Why it matters:

Helps extend already long lifespan

Pro tip:

Can last up to 2 weeks with proper care

Use minimal water

Can be dried naturally by removing water

Why it matters:

Overwatering reduces longevity

Pro tip:

Great for both fresh and dried arrangements

Keep in a stable temperature environment

Avoid direct sunlight and heat

Why it matters:

Sensitive to environmental changes

Pro tip:

Sudden temperature shifts can cause rapid wilting

Remove leaves below water line

Change water regularly

Why it matters:

Prevents bacterial buildup

Pro tip:

One of the most long-lasting cut flowers

Handle gently due to delicate petals

Keep in clean water and stable environment

Why it matters:

Petals bruise easily

Pro tip:

Avoid strong airflow like fans

Change water frequently

Trim stems regularly

Why it matters:

Prone to bacteria buildup

Pro tip:

Clean water significantly extends lifespan