How to Keep Fresh Flowers Longer
July 24, 2025
There’s nothing like a fresh bouquet to brighten up your space, whether it’s a $5 bundle from the grocery store or a handpicked arrangement for a special occasion. But all too often, those beautiful blooms seem to wilt just a few days after coming home. The good news? With a little extra care, you can make your flowers last longer and get the most out of your bouquet. Here are some simple, effective tips to keep your grocery store flowers fresher, longer.
1. Start With a Clean Vase
Before you even unwrap your flowers, wash your vase with warm soapy water to remove any lingering bacteria that can cause flowers to deteriorate faster. Rinse it thoroughly and fill it with room-temperature water.
2. Trim the Stems
Cut 1 to 2 inches off the bottom of the stems at a diagonal angle using sharp scissors or garden shears. Cutting at an angle allows for better water absorption and prevents the stems from sitting flat on the bottom of the vase, which can block water intake. Re-trim stems every few days to keep water flowing.
3. Remove Lower Leaves
Any leaves that would sit below the water line should be removed. Submerged leaves can rot quickly and turn the water murky, which creates a breeding ground for bacteria that shortens the life of your flowers.
4. Use the Flower Food
That little packet that comes with your bouquet? Don’t toss it! It contains a mix of nutrients, acidifiers, and antibacterial agents designed to nourish the flowers and keep the water clean. Follow the directions and dissolve it completely in the water before adding your flowers.
5. Keep Them Cool and Out of Direct Sunlight
Flowers prefer cool temperatures. Keep your bouquet away from direct sunlight, heaters, or drafts. A shaded table or countertop is ideal. Also, avoid placing your flowers near ripening fruits—fruit gives off ethylene gas, which speeds up the wilting process.
6. Change the Water Every 2–3 Days
Fresh water is essential for long-lasting flowers. Every few days, empty the vase, rinse it, refill it with clean water, and re-trim the stems. If you have extra flower food, add a new packet with each water change.
7. DIY Flower Food (If You’re Out)
No flower food packet? You can make your own by mixing:- 1 teaspoon sugar (for nutrition)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice (to acidify and fight bacteria)
- A few drops of bleach (to kill bacteria)
- Stir this into a quart of lukewarm water and pour into your vase.
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