Nothing says “summer” like a vase full of bright, fresh flowers. Whether they’re a gift from someone special or a treat you picked up for yourself, you want them to stay beautiful for as long as possible. Many people think the little packet of flower food is the key, but here at The Lavender House, we’ve found that fresh water and a little simple care actually work better, especially in the summer heat.
Why Skip the Flower Food?
While it’s often marketed as a way to extend the life of your bouquet, flower food can sometimes have the opposite effect. In warm summer conditions, it can actually encourage bacterial growth in the water faster than plain, fresh water. That cloudy water not only looks unpleasant but can also block stems from taking in what they need. The real secret to keeping flowers vibrant? Fresh, clean water and regularly trimmed stems.
Change the Water Often
If there’s one tip that makes the biggest difference, it’s this: change your bouquet’s water every couple of days. Think of it like giving your flowers a fresh drink, it keeps bacteria at bay and helps them take in water more easily. When you refill the vase, make sure it’s with cool, clean water, not warm or hot.
Give the Stems a Fresh Cut
Every time you change the water, take a moment to trim the stems at an angle. Why? Over time, the ends can seal up or get a little slimy, making it harder for your flowers to drink. A quick, clean cut opens them back up so they can soak in water like they’re supposed to.
Keep Them Cool and Out of Direct Sunlight
As tempting as it is to put your bouquet right in a sunny window, direct sunlight will speed up wilting. The same goes for placing them near heat vents or in a hot kitchen. Summer blooms do best in a cooler spot, away from harsh light and drafts.
Remove Fading Blooms
It’s normal for some flowers to fade faster than others. When you notice petals starting to drop or heads drooping, remove those stems from the vase. This not only keeps your arrangement looking fresh but also helps slow bacteria growth.
A Little Extra Care Goes a Long Way
Caring for summer flowers doesn’t have to be complicated, and it doesn’t require special packets or complicated mixes. By sticking to clean water, fresh stem cuts, and the right placement in your home, you can enjoy your bouquet for days longer.
If you’d like to bring a little summer colour into your home (or surprise someone special), we’d be happy to create something beautiful for you. Visit us in-store or browse our seasonal collection for same-day Edmonton flower delivery and hand-crafted arrangements designed to make the season even brighter.