A fresh bouquet has a magical way of brightening a room and lifting the spirits. Whether it’s a surprise gift, a birthday gesture, or a Mother’s Day token of love, fresh flowers bring joy with every bloom. However, keeping those blooms looking their best for longer is the goal. As a trusted florist in Melbourne, NAZ Flowers and Gifts takes pride in sharing some expert tips to help you extend the beauty and life of your flowers.
Flowers are delicate by nature, but with the right care and a few handy tricks, you can enjoy them well beyond the usual few days. Here's how to make the most of your bouquet and keep it thriving.
Start with a Clean Slate
Before placing your flowers in a vase, make sure it’s spotless. Bacteria and residue from previous arrangements can drastically reduce the lifespan of fresh flowers. Wash the vase with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
Using a clean vase reduces the chance of fungal growth or harmful bacteria affecting your blooms. It’s a small but crucial step many people forget in the excitement of arranging fresh flowers.
Once your vase is clean, fill it with lukewarm water and mix in the flower food provided by your florist. This provides a balanced start for the flowers and nourishes them from the moment they’re placed.
Trim with Care
Freshly cut flowers need a fresh trim. Using a sharp knife or scissors, cut about 1–2 cm off the bottom of each stem at an angle. This increases water absorption and prevents the stems from sitting flat at the bottom of the vase, where airflow is limited.
Trimming should be repeated every couple of days. Regular trimming also helps remove any decayed stem ends, which can prevent water from reaching the bloom.
Avoid crushing or tearing stems, as this can hinder water uptake. Always cut under running water or submerge the stem while cutting to prevent air bubbles.
Refresh the Water Often
Clean, fresh water is vital to keeping flowers hydrated and healthy. Change the water every two days or sooner if it appears cloudy. Each time you change the water, clean the vase and re-trim the stems.
Adding a small amount of flower preservative with each water change can significantly help. If you don’t have flower food, a homemade solution of sugar and vinegar or a few drops of lemon juice can help mimic its effects.
Staying consistent with water changes is one of the most effective ways to keep your bouquet looking vibrant.
Choose the Right Spot
Where you place your flowers matters. Keep them away from direct sunlight, heat sources like radiators, or draughty areas such as open windows and air-conditioning vents.
Flowers last longer in cooler environments. Try placing your arrangement in a shaded room with good airflow. Avoid placing flowers near fruit bowls, as ripening fruit emits ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to wilt faster.
Selecting a calm and cool space will help your bouquet maintain its freshness and colour for days to come.
Remove Wilting Flowers and Leaves
As your bouquet ages, some flowers and leaves may begin to wilt or discolour. Remove them promptly to prevent them from affecting the rest of the arrangement. Dying petals can fall into the water, encouraging bacteria.
Keeping the bouquet neat by removing wilting parts helps the healthy blooms stay fresher longer. It also improves the overall look of the bouquet, keeping it visually appealing.
This kind of maintenance takes just a minute or two each day but goes a long way in keeping your flowers looking lively.
Give Them a Boost Overnight
Want to go the extra mile? Store your flowers in a cool place overnight. Florists often keep blooms in coolers for this reason. Placing your bouquet in the fridge before bedtime can mimic this condition and significantly slow down the ageing process.
Just make sure to keep them away from fresh produce in the fridge and avoid freezing temperatures. This simple overnight routine can add extra life to your arrangement, especially during warmer months.
Let Your Flowers Flourish
Taking care of your flowers doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits and a little attention can make a big difference. Clean vases, regular trims, fresh water, and smart placement all work together to extend the beauty of your bouquet.
Whether it's a stunning gift or a self-care treat, fresh flowers deserve the best chance to bloom for longer. For beautifully curated arrangements and expert care, look to a florist near you who understand the craft and joy of flowers.
For quality bouquets and trusted flower delivery in Melbourne, turn to NAZ Flowers and Gifts. Call us at 03 4210 0381 and keep your flowers looking fresher, longer. No matter if it’s Roxburgh Park or the bustling Melbourne CBD, we’re spreading joy and blooms across suburbs like yours — including Reservoir, Dandenong and beyond.