What Makes Flowers Live Longer?

The best time to cut fresh flowers is when they are most fresh. For example, cut them first thing in the morning or in the evening after the sun has set. Cut the stems with a sharp tool, such as a stem cutter; never use scissors. Cutting at a 45 degree angle will help the stems take up more water because they will not be flat against the bottom of the vase. Be careful not to damage the stems because this is how the flowers will take in the water. Upon cutting, place the flowers immediately into cool water. The longer newly cut stems are exposed to the air, the higher the risk of air bubbles developing in the stems. These air bubbles can restrict the amount of water the flowers can take in.

When you are ready to place the flowers into a vase, cut the stems once more and remove the foliage from the part of the stems that will be in the water. The foliage, if left on, can facilitate decay and reduce the lifespan of the flowers. Rinse out the vase or clean it if need be, then fill it with lukewarm water. Stay away from metal containers because they can cause unfavorable reactions with the water that will decrease the success of flower preservatives. Put the flowers gently into the vase and never overcrowd the flowers. Always remove any dead flowers from the arrangement, as the gasses given off by dying flowers can kill the others.

Flower preservatives can be used to help make flowers live longer. They offer the flowers food, hydration and protection from bacteria. The food, in the form of sugar, is supplied because a flower can no longer produce its own sugar once cut. To achieve hydration, a mild acid is added to the flower preservative to help lower the water's pH. This helps the water molecules stick together, which increases water uptake through the stems. Flower preservatives can keep the growth of bacteria to a minimum and enhance the look and health of the flowers. Purchase flower preservative from a local garden store and follow the instructions on the packet.

For most flowers, the water temperature in the vase should be lukewarm - not too hot, not too cold. Warmer water is more easily absorbed by the stems and should only be used for extremely wilted flowers or for buds that have difficulty opening.

Flowers will live longer if they are not placed in direct sunlight or in the direct path of heat. For example, do not place the vase in front of a window or on top of a television, refrigerator, fireplace or any other source of heat. They prefer cooler temperatures, but keep them away from drafts, which can dry them out. A good location might be a table in a cool room, away from the window, and not near a door that leads outside.

Some people like to preserve a flower forever to use in dead flower arrangements, or to keep the flowers for scrapbooking or memory boxes. Choose a flower that is still alive and in good condition. Hang it upside down so it can keep its shape as it air dries. If you wish to flatten the flower instead, place it into the center a heavy book. Close the book and leave it there until the flower dries out.