How to Keep Flowers Fresh in San Francisco

Nothing beats the beauty of fresh flowers, but watching them wilt can be disappointing. With these professional tips, you can keep your blooms looking gorgeous for up to two weeks or more.

The Basics: Setting Up for Success

1. Start with a Clean Vase

Bacteria is the enemy of fresh flowers. Wash your vase thoroughly with soap and warm water before arranging your flowers.

2. Use Room Temperature Water

Most flowers prefer room temperature water. Add the provided flower food packet, or make your own with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar per quart of water.

3. Trim Stems at an Angle

Cut 1-2 inches off the stems at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water absorption and prevents stems from sitting flat on the vase bottom.

Daily Maintenance

Change the Water

Replace the water every 2-3 days, or whenever it looks cloudy. Fresh water means fewer bacteria and healthier flowers.

Remove Dying Blooms

As individual flowers fade, remove them promptly. Dying flowers release ethylene gas that accelerates wilting in healthy blooms.

Keep Away from Heat

Place your arrangement away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and fruit bowls (fruit releases ethylene gas).

Pro Tips from Our Florists

• Refrigerate overnight: If possible, place your arrangement in the refrigerator overnight when you're not enjoying them
• Mist delicate blooms: Orchids and hydrangeas benefit from a light misting
• Re-cut stems: Every time you change the water, give stems a fresh cut
• Use vodka: A few drops of vodka in the water can help inhibit bacterial growth

Flowers That Last Longest

Some flowers naturally have longer vase lives: - Chrysanthemums (2-3 weeks) - Carnations (2-3 weeks) - Orchids (2-3 weeks) - Lilies (10-14 days) - Roses (7-10 days with proper care)