How to Preserve Flowers & Make Them Last | Expressions

How to Make Florist Hamilton Fresh Flowers Last Longer

How to Make Florist Hamilton Fresh Flowers Last Longer

Preserve flowers: red flower box from Expressions Cambridge

A bouquet received on a special day has value beyond words. Naturally, fresh flowers fade over time. However, there are easy ways to slow that down. So, here is how to make flowers last longer, plus how to preserve them for years.

How to make flowers last longer

Start as soon as your flowers arrive. First, trim each stem at an angle with sharp scissors. Next, remove any leaves that sit below the water. Then place the flowers in a clean vase with fresh water and flower food.

Daily care

Top up the water every day. In addition, change it completely every two days and recut the stems. Keep your flowers away from heaters, sunny windows and fruit bowls. As a result, they will stay fresh for days longer.

For more detail, see our guide on storing fresh flowers.

Choose long-lasting blooms

Some flowers simply last longer. For example, chrysanthemums, carnations and alstroemeria often last up to two weeks. Therefore, they are great choices if vase life matters to you.

How to preserve your flowers

When your bouquet starts to fade, you can still keep it. There are three popular methods.

Air drying

Air drying is the easiest method. Simply hang the bunch upside down in a dry, airy space. Keep it away from direct sun, so the colours don’t fade too much.

Pressing

Pressing suits flat flowers and petals. Place them between two sheets of blotting paper. Then put them inside a heavy book for a week or two. Later, you can frame them or use them in cards.

Silica gel

Silica gel often gives the best results. Bury the flowers in a container of gel for a few days. Afterwards, they keep their shape and much of their colour.

Order fresh flowers

Great care starts with fresh stock, and fresh stock is also easier to preserve. Browse our flowers, visit 57 Victoria Street or call 07 823 0119. We deliver across Cambridge and Hamilton, and we are always happy to share tips on how to preserve flowers.