Fresh flowers have a magical way of brightening any space, lifting moods, and turning everyday moments into something beautiful. Whether you’ve picked up a bouquet from our shop in Lakeview or received one as a surprise from someone special, we know you’ll want to keep those blooms looking vibrant for as long as possible.
Here are our top tried-and-true tips for extending the life of your bouquet—straight from the floral pros at Plumeria.
1. Start With a Clean Vase
It may sound simple, but a clean vase is the foundation for fresh flowers. Any lingering bacteria from previous arrangements can cause your new stems to wilt quickly.
- Wash your vase thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
- Rinse with a little white vinegar or bleach if it’s been sitting for a while.
- Always start with fresh, cool water—about two-thirds full.
2. Trim Those Stems
Your flowers need a fresh cut to properly absorb water.
- Use sharp scissors or garden shears to cut 1–2 inches off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle.
- Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline to avoid bacterial growth.
🌿 Pro tip: Re-trim your stems every 2–3 days for maximum longevity.
3. Change the Water Every Other Day
Bacteria builds up fast in standing water. Keeping it fresh is key to keeping your flowers fresh.
- Change the water completely every two days.
- Rinse the vase, give stems a fresh cut, and re-add flower food if you have it.
4. Use Flower Food (Or Make Your Own)
If your bouquet came with a flower food packet—use it! It contains the perfect mix of nutrients and anti-bacterial agents.
DIY option:
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- A few drops of bleach per quart of water
This mixture feeds your flowers while keeping the water clean.
5. Location, Location, Location
Where you place your bouquet matters more than you might think.
Keep flowers:
- Out of direct sunlight
- Away from heating or cooling vents
- Far from ripening fruit (bananas and apples emit ethylene gas, which speeds up decay)
6. Remove Wilting Flowers Promptly
As blooms naturally begin to fade, be sure to remove them from the arrangement. This prevents mold and bacteria from spreading to the healthier stems.
7. Bonus: Get Creative with Repurposing
As your bouquet starts to age, consider:
- Drying standout stems like roses or eucalyptus to enjoy long-term
- Pressing petals to use in handmade cards or framed art
- Clipping leftover greenery into a mini arrangement for your bedside table
Let Your Blooms Tell a Longer Story
At Plumeria, we believe every bouquet tells a story—and with the right care, yours can bloom longer and brighter. Whether you’re nurturing a stunning anniversary arrangement or refreshing your home with weekly florals, a little love goes a long way.
Stop by either of our locations in Urbandale or Lakeview for fresh flowers, expert advice, and a dose of floral joy.