Top tips - make cut flowers last longer in the vase

Prolonging the life of cut flowers can be fairly straightforward and doesn't have to be time consuming. Here are my top tips for keeping flowers fresher for longer:

Tip #1 Buy flowers locally

Buying from a British flower farmer will mean you get the blooms as soon as possible after they've been cut and conditioned. It means you get to enjoy those days the flowers would have spent travelling.

Tip #2 Trim stems

One of the most important things you can do to make cut flowers last longer in the vase is to trim the stems every few days (when changing the water, for example). This helps to remove any blockages in the stem that may be preventing the flower from absorbing water, and it also helps to prevent bacterial growth. Simply cut off about an inch of the stem at a 45-degree angle, making sure not to crush or damage the delicate vessels inside.

Trim stems every couple of days to keep them looking fresh

Tip #3 Renew the water

Fresh flowers need fresh water! Make sure you're using cold tap water that's changed every few days. Old or stagnant water can cause bacteria to grow and shorten the life of your flowers.

If the vase goes green or gets a slime on it, wash it with fairy liquid. Always wash vases once your flowers are done.

For an extra freshness, add a tablespoon of white vinegar and a little sugar. The vinegar prevents bacteria growth and the sugar is energy for the bloom.

Tip #4 Keep them cool

Some flowers are more sensitive to temperature than others. Most flowers you'll buy from a British producer prefer cooler conditions so avoid placing them on south facing window sills or above radiators.

Tip #5 Avoid ethylene emitters

Ethylene gas, a natural by-product of fruit and vegetable ripening, can cause your flowers to age faster. Keep them away from bananas, apples, and other fruits that produce ethylene. If you must store your flowers near fruit, make sure it's in a separate room or container.

Sadly, fresh flowers have a limited life but if you follow these top tips, they should last longer.