Valentine’s Day is a time for romance, and a beautiful bouquet is a classic way to express your affection. However, the disappointment of wilting flowers can quickly dampen the mood. To ensure your Valentine’s Day blooms stay fresh and vibrant for as long as possible, follow these expert tips:

1. The Importance of a Clean Bucket:

• Before arranging your flowers, thoroughly wash your bucket or vase with warm soapy water. This removes any bacteria that may shorten the life of your blooms.

2. Provide Fresh Water:

• Use cool, clean water to fill the vase.
• Change the water every two to three days, or more frequently if the water becomes cloudy or discoloured.

3. Recut the Stems:

• Before placing flowers in the vase, recut the stems at an angle under running water. This allows for maximum water absorption. When flowers are in transit, they form a film over the end of the stems to protect against bacteria. 
• Remove any leaves that will fall below the water line, as they can contribute to bacterial growth.

4. Add Flower Food:

• Use flower food packets or a bottle with your flowers, or create your own simple solution by adding a teaspoon of sugar and a drop of bleach to a quart of water. 

5. Choose the Right Location:

• Avoid placing your flowers in direct sunlight, near heat sources (such as radiators or fireplaces), or in drafty areas.
• Keep them away from ripening fruits, which release ethylene gas that can accelerate flower aging.

6. Remove Wilting Blooms:

• Regularly remove any wilting flowers to prevent them from spreading bacteria to the rest of the bouquet.

7. Mist Regularly:

• Lightly misting your flowers with cool water can help to maintain humidity and prevent them from drying out.

8. Consider Cool Temperatures:

• Placing your bouquet in a cooler location at night can help to slow down the aging process.

9. Embrace Imperfection:

• Remember that even with the best care, flowers will eventually wilt. Embrace the natural beauty of your bouquet, and enjoy the fleeting moment of its splendour.

You can refer to our useful conditioning guide on the website, along with How to tutorials & Flower Advice in the Help & Advice part of the website. Our team are always on hand to provide you with useful information. 

By following these simple tips, you can help your Valentine’s Day flowers last longer and continue to bring joy and beauty to your home.