A beautifully arranged flower bouquet from Maison Des Fleurs can brighten any space, but without proper care, those vibrant blooms may wilt sooner than expected. To help you enjoy your flowers for as long as possible, here are essential care tips to keep them fresh and lively.

Choosing the Right Vase

The first step in flower bouquet care is selecting an appropriate vase. A clean vase prevents bacteria growth, which can shorten the lifespan of your flowers. Maison Des Fleurs recommends using a vase that is tall enough to support the stems while allowing enough room for water circulation. Glass vases are ideal because they are easy to clean and allow you to monitor water clarity. Before placing your bouquet in the vase, wash it thoroughly with warm, soapy water to remove any residue.

Trimming the Stems Properly

Trimming the stems of your flowers is crucial for water absorption. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut about an inch off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. This angled cut increases the surface area, allowing the flowers to absorb more water. Maison Des Fleurs advises repeating this step every few days if you notice the ends becoming soggy or discolored. Always trim the stems under running water or immediately before placing them in the vase to prevent air bubbles from blocking water uptake.

Using Clean, Room Temperature Water

Water quality plays a significant role in extending the life of your bouquet. Fill the vase with room-temperature water, as extreme temperatures can shock the flowers. Maison Des Fleurs suggests changing the water every two days to keep it fresh and free from bacteria. If your bouquet includes floral foam, ensure it stays saturated by adding water daily. Avoid using hard or heavily chlorinated water, as it can damage delicate petals. Filtered or distilled water is an excellent alternative for sensitive blooms.

Adding Flower Food for Nutrition

Most bouquets from Maison Des Fleurs come with a packet of flower food, which provides essential nutrients to keep the blooms vibrant. If you run out, you can make a homemade solution by mixing a teaspoon of sugar, a few drops of bleach, and a teaspoon of lemon juice in a liter of water. The sugar acts as food, the bleach prevents bacterial growth, and the lemon juice balances the water’s pH. Avoid overusing flower food, as too much can harm the flowers.

Keeping Flowers Away from Direct Sunlight and Heat

While flowers need light to thrive, direct sunlight and heat can cause them to wilt prematurely. Place your bouquet in a cool, shaded spot away from windowsills, radiators, or appliances that emit heat. Maison Des Fleurs recommends keeping the room temperature between 65-72°F (18-22°C) for optimal freshness. If you notice petals drying out, move the arrangement to a cooler location immediately.

Removing Wilting Flowers and Foliage

As flowers age, some blooms may wilt faster than others. Remove these dying flowers promptly to prevent ethylene gas production, which speeds up the decay of the remaining bouquet. Maison Des Fleurs also advises trimming any leaves that fall below the waterline, as submerged foliage can rot and promote bacterial growth. Regularly inspecting your bouquet helps maintain its overall health and appearance.

Avoiding Ethylene Exposure

Ethylene is a natural gas produced by ripening fruits, vegetables, and even car exhaust. This gas accelerates flower aging, leading to drooping petals and yellowing leaves. Maison Des Fleurs suggests keeping your bouquet away from fruit bowls, kitchen counters near produce, and garages. If storing flowers temporarily in the fridge, ensure no ethylene-producing items are nearby.

Misting Delicate Flowers for Hydration

Some delicate flowers, such as hydrangeas or orchids, benefit from light misting. Use a spray bottle to mist the petals lightly every day, ensuring they stay hydrated without becoming waterlogged. Maison Des Fleurs cautions against over-misting, as excess moisture can lead to mold growth. Always mist in the morning so the flowers have time to dry naturally.

Storing Flowers Overnight for Longevity

If you want to preserve your bouquet overnight or before an event, store it in a cool, dark place. Maison Des Fleurs recommends placing the flowers in the refrigerator at around 40°F (4°C) for a few hours. This slows down the aging process and keeps the blooms crisp. However, avoid storing flowers near refrigerated fruits or vegetables to prevent ethylene exposure.

Reviving Wilted Flowers

If your bouquet starts to droop, there’s still hope. Submerge the entire bouquet in cool water for 30 minutes to rehydrate the stems and petals. Maison Des Fleurs also suggests recutting the stems and changing the water immediately after reviving. For severely wilted flowers, trimming shorter stems and placing them in a smaller vase can sometimes bring them back to life.

Conclusion

With proper care, a flower bouquet from Maison Des Fleurs can stay fresh and beautiful for over a week, sometimes even longer. By following these simple yet effective tips—choosing the right vase, trimming stems, using clean water, and avoiding harmful conditions—you can extend the life of your blooms and enjoy their elegance for days. Whether it’s a gift or a personal indulgence, well-maintained flowers bring endless joy and charm to any setting.