How to Keep Flowers Fresh During Your Holiday

1. Choose the Right Flowers for Longevity

By choosing durable flowers suited to your climate, you can come home to a bouquet fresh for your entire holiday. Some excellent options include:

• Roses: Classic roses can last up to a week with proper care. Look for fully opened blooms and avoid buds.
• Alstroemeria: These colourful blooms can survive up to 2 weeks. Their compact shape also means less surface area to dehydrate.
• Sunflowers: Bright, cheerful sunflowers typically last 7-10 days. Look for flowers with pollen-free varieties which tend to live longer.
• Zinnias: Zinnias come in a rainbow of hues and can endure up to a week with the right conditions. Choose densely petaled varieties.
• Gerbera daisies: Gerbera daisies can stick around for 7-14 days. Look for stems with multiple blooms, which tend to stay fresher longer.

2. Proper Hydration is Key

One of the most important things to keep your bouquet fresh while you are away is to change the water regularly. Fresh, room-temperature water will keep your flowers hydrated and prevent bacterial growth that can clog up stems and accelerate wilting.

• Replace the water in the vase before leaving for your trip. Fill a clean vase 2/3 full of room temperature water and floral preservative according to the package directions. This will provide nourishment for your flowers and help prevent bacterial growth.
• Change the water at least once during an extended trip if possible. Have a friend or neighbour stop by to replace the water. In addition to changing water, give the flowers a quick misting with a spray bottle 2 to 3 times a week to keep them hydrated. Misting replaces the humidity that is lost by having the flowers indoors. Pay extra attention to misting the leaves and buds, as they lose moisture faster than the petals.
• Empty and rinse out the vase each time the water is changed. Be sure to remove any dead or dying flowers, leaves, or stems. These prevent bacteria buildup and keep your arrangement looking fresh. Refill it with room temperature water and floral preservative.
• Re-cut the stems again if the water gets very cloudy between changes. The fresher the cut and the cleaner the water, the better for your blooms.
• When you return, refresh the water, and give the stems another trim.

3. Prepare the Flowers: Cut, Clean, and Condition

With some TLC before your trip, your flowers will last longer while you are away. Follow these tips to prepare your flowers:

• First, trim 1 to 2 inches off the stems at an angle and remove any leaves below the waterline. This allows the flowers to absorb as much water as possible.
• Next, clean the stems to remove any dirt or debris. You can do this by gently wiping them down with a damp cloth or paper towel. This step is important because any blockages can prevent the uptake of water and nutrients.
• Then, condition the flowers by placing them in a vase filled with room temperature water for at least 2 hours before arranging them. During this time, you can prep the vase by filling it with floral preservatives and fresh water. The preservative provides essential nutrients to keep your flowers vibrant.
• Look for a vase that is specifically designed for cut flowers like Flower Addict’s contemporary vases. Glass or plastic works well.
• Once conditioned, arrange the flowers in the vase. For the best results, do not crowd the vase, and make sure all leaves and petals are above the waterline.

4. Keep Flowers in a Cool Spot Away from Direct Sunlight

The biggest threat to your flowers is excess heat. Keeping them in an area that is too warm will cause them to wilt faster.

• Place the bouquet in a spot that stays cool and away from direct sunlight, such as in a hallway.
• An area with ambient lighting, such as near a window that does not get direct sun is ideal. Total darkness is not good for most flowers.
• Avoid placing near air vents, radiators, fireplaces, or other heat sources. Direct light and warmth will speed up deterioration.
• Make sure the spot has good airflow circulation. Stagnant, still air also contributes to accelerated wilting. A small fan can help gently circulate the air.

5. Consider a Floral Spray

Applying a floral spray or wax to your flowers before leaving can help seal in moisture and protect the blooms. These products create a protective coating on the petals and leaves to slow down dehydration and wilting. Look for sprays that are non-toxic and safe for fresh flowers.

6. Ask a Friend to Check In

To keep your arrangement looking its best for as long as possible, ask a friend you trust to stop in once a week to check on it and perform some basic care. Be sure to show your appreciation for your friend’s help with a small thank you gift when you return. After all, keeping your floral arrangement fresh is a labour of love!

A good friend can:

• Add fresh, room temperature water to the vase. Remove any dead or dying flowers, leaves, or stems. Top up the water level at least 2 inches remain at the bottom of the vase.
• Gently mist the flowers and foliage with a spray bottle a couple of times. The humidity will perk them up.
• Move the vase out of direct sunlight which can accelerate wilting. An area with bright, indirect light is ideal.
• Check for any signs of disease or pest infestation. Remove affected flowers or stems immediately.
• Add a commercial flower food according to the directions on the product. This will provide nutrients to keep buds and blooms looking fresh.

With some planning and preparation beforehand, most bouquets can last up to two weeks – just follow these steps and your bouquet will be waiting to welcome you back. Now the only thing left to do is pack your bags, lock up, and start your holiday knowing your flowers are in good hands.