Long-lasting Cut Flowers

Fresh flowers make a wonderful gift for almost any situation. Here are a few tips to make them last as long as possible.

At the store, flowers should have freshly cut stems, and be kept in clean water. Flower food should be provided with the flowers.

At home, remove leaves or flowers that will end up underwater. Cut one-half to one inch off the stems with a sharp clean knife. Place them in a clean vase filled with fresh water and flower food. Pre-arranged flowers should be in clean, clear water or moist floral foam.

If the water turns yellow and cloudy, wash the vase with soapy water and add fresh water with flower food. Re-cut and rinse the stems before placing them back into the container.

UF/IFAS Sites

• Caring for Mother's Day Flowers
• Keep Valentine's Day Flowers Alive Longer
• Keep Your Bouquets Beautiful

UF/IFAS Publications

• De-Myth-tifying Cut Flower Care (PDF)

Also on Gardening in a Minute

• Buying Roses
• Carnations
• Choosing a Florist
• Tips on Cutting Roses

Other Sites

• Add Hours to Your Flowers--Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service (PDF)
• The Care and Handling of Cut Flowers--Oklahoma Cooperative Extension (PDF)
• Cut Flower Care: How to Make Your Fresh-Cut Flowers Last--Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
• Cut Flowers--University of New Hamphire Cooperative Extension (PDF)
• Extend the Life of Cut Flowers--University of Nebraska Lincoln
• Fresh Cut Flowers and Plant Care--Alabama Cooperative Extension
• Keep Valentine's Flowers Fresh Longer--Colorado State University Cooperative Extension
• Keeping Cut Flowers--University of Minnesota Extension
• Valentine Flower Care--University of Illinois Extension