Six tips to make fresh, cut flowers last longer in hot weather

Our customers often ask us for flower care tips and advice but the one question that, without a doubt, we hear the most is ‘how can I make fresh flowers last longer in the hot summer weather?’ For both arrangements secured into oasis, or hand tied bouquets, following these few simple steps, will help you to enjoy your flowers whatever the temperature.

A vital factor in ensuring your fresh flowers last well, is to always buy from a professional florist with expert knowledge and of course, regular deliveries. Courts has deliveries throughout the week, typically two from our wholesalers and three or more direct from Holland. Transported in chilled containers, this means that the flowers we sell are always in optimum condition and never more than 2-3 days old.

How long do fresh flowers last?

Most florists agree that flowers should last a good 7-10 days from purchase, depending on the individual variety. In extreme heat this reduces slightly but with a little extra care you should be able to enjoy them for at least a week. In hot weather we keep all flowers in our fridges for maximum freshness so if you are in our shop always ask if you cannot see what you want on display.

Transporting flowers home

Cut flowers must be kept in water. Once out for more than twenty minutes, their stems start to seal to protect themselves. Once you are home, place them in a container of water and keep cool until ready to be arranged or gifted.

The best place to display flowers is in a cool location, away from extremes of temperature such as radiators or kitchens. A table in the middle of a lounge or dining room is ideal. Whilst windowsills are popular, they will shorten the flower’s life as the temperature and amount of sunshine on a windowsill, varies throughout the day, often resulting in the stems literally ‘poaching’ in warm water. Ensure flowers are away from any heat source; especially in a kitchen area and keep away from fruit bowls. Ripening fruits such as bananas and apples give off ethylene gas and this in turn speeds up the degeneration of flowers.

Preparation

Always use scrupulously clean vases, cleaning with hot soapy water and bleach after each use. Flowers that have been out of a water a while will need to be trimmed. Simply cut about 2cm from the base of each stem, ideally diagonally, to increase surface area. Fill the vase about two thirds full and don’t forget to remove any broken stems and leaves that will be below the water level.

Daily maintenance

Remove wilting stems plus any dead leaves or buds
Completely change the water, or top up if this is not possible
Every few days re-trim stems and remove any leaves below the water line
Add new plant food after three days
Over time, transfer remaining flowers to a smaller vase to improve overall appearance

Pets and children

Keep out of reach of children and pets. Some plants, such as Lilies, drop pollen, which is particularly toxic to cats.

Flower Food

Did you know that there are several different types of flower food each with a specific role?

During transportation and whilst held in a shop the primary aim of the flower food is to keep them as fresh as possible and the buds closed, but the food that accompanies the flowers you buy has the aim of extending life and encouraging the buds to open. All our flowers include a sachet of flower food, but you can easily make your own to use for maintenance.

How to make your own Flower Food.

2 tablespoons of Lemon juice
(Flowers like a low pH and lemon reduces the overall level)

1 tablespoon of sugar
(This provides vital nutrients)

½ teaspoon of bleach
(Slows bacterial and fungal growth)

1 litre of cool water

Once made up simply add two tablespoons to a vase of water and store the remainder out of reach of children in a container marked Flower Food DO NOT DRINK.

We hope that you have found these tips useful and that they help you to keep your fresh flowers looking their best this summer.

Courts of Rayleigh offers nationwide Interflora delivery along with many additional gift ideas. If you are planning a special occasion and need some advice, or simply want to brighten someone’s day, please get in touch by the method you prefer below.

Call 01268 777983 to speak to one of our team, check out our website www.courtsofrayleigh.co.uk, or pop in to see our lovely shop at 54 Eastwood Road, Rayleigh, Essex. SS6 7JP