Flower Care 101: Tips for Keeping Your Blooms Fresh Longer

Flower Care 101: Tips for Keeping Your Blooms Fresh Longer

You’ve just brought home a stunning bouquet, and it’s lighting up your space with colour and joy. 

But how do you keep those blooms looking their best for as long as possible? 

With a little care, you can enjoy your flowers for days—or even weeks. Here’s how to keep them fresh and vibrant in Australia’s unique climate.

Start with a Clean Vase

A fresh start begins with a clean vase. Any leftover residue from previous arrangements can create bacteria that makes flowers wilt faster. Wash your vase with warm, soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. A sparkling vase sets the stage for healthier flowers that will last much longer.

Trim the Stems the Right Way

Before placing your flowers in water, trim about 2-3cm off the bottom of each stem at an angle using sharp scissors or a knife. This angle creates more surface area for the flowers to take in water. If you notice your flowers drooping after a few days, give them another trim and they should perk back up again.

Use Fresh Water and Flower Food

Fresh water is key to happy blooms. Fill your vase with room-temperature water and change it at least every two days. If you have flower food, add it to the water to provide essential nutrients. No flower food? Mix a teaspoon of sugar and a drop of bleach into the water for a simple DIY alternative.

Keep Flowers Cool and Away from Heat

Melbourne summers can be harsh, and direct sunlight or heat can quickly damage your flowers. Keep them in a cool spot, away from heaters, air conditioners, and drafts. Also be sure to avoid placing your flowers near ripening fruit, as it releases ethylene gas that will shorten the life of your blooms.

Remove Wilting Blooms

As some flowers start to fade, remove them from the arrangement to keep the rest looking fresh. Decaying flowers release bacteria into the water, which can also affect the others. Regularly check your arrangement and give it some love by removing any wilting petals or leaves.

Know Your Flowers’ Needs

Different flowers need different care. Here are a few care tips for some common flowers.

Roses: Keep leaves out of the water and trim the stems every few days for longer life.
Tulips: These continue to grow after being cut, so trim them regularly to keep them balanced.
Native Blooms: Australian natives like proteas and banksias are hardy but still need fresh water and occasional trimming.

Experience the Freshest Flowers in Melbourne with Bridge Road Florist!

At Bridge Road Florist, we’re passionate about helping you enjoy the beauty of flowers for as long as possible. From expert care tips to stunning arrangements, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Visit us online or call us at 9428 1799 to learn more. Let us help you bring fresh, vibrant flowers into your home and keep them looking their best!