How to care for your flowers.
A few simple steps can help you enjoy your bouquet for longer. Choose your flower type to get started.
Fresh flowers.
When your bouquet arrives, prepare a vase and place the flowers in water.
-
Start with a clean vase
Wash it thoroughly and add fresh water. If you have flower food, use the amount of water shown on the sachet.
-
Trim the stems
Cut at an angle with clean, sharp scissors. Remove any leaves that would sit below the water, then place the bouquet in the vase.
-
Choose a cool spot
Keep flowers away from direct sunlight, heating and draughts. Place the bouquet away from ripening fruit.
-
Check the water
Check the level daily. Change the water and clean the vase every two days, or sooner if the water is dirty. Recut the stem ends and remove faded flowers.
Preserved flowers.
These are natural flowers treated to keep their appearance. They need different care.
No water
Do not water or mist them.
A dry spot
Keep them indoors, away from humidity, heat and direct sunlight.
A gentle touch
Handle them as little as possible. Remove dust with a soft feather duster, without pressing the petals.
A tip for each flower.
Roses
Avoid removing thorns, as this can damage the stem. Remove only the leaves that would sit below the water.
Tulips
Their stems can keep growing in the vase. Trim about 2–3 cm when they arrive and place them in clean water.
Lilies
Pollen can stain. Gently remove the pollen-bearing parts before they start shedding it.
Hydrangeas
They need plenty of water. Check the level daily and top up the vase when needed.
Common questions.
How long do fresh flowers last?
It depends on the flower, temperature and care. Different flowers in the same bouquet may last for different lengths of time, so we do not give one fixed lifespan for every bouquet.
What if I do not have flower food?
Use clean water and change it regularly. If you buy food for cut flowers, follow the instructions on the packet.
Which vase should I use?
Choose a clean, stable vase that supports the stems without squeezing them. Keep the stem ends in the water and the leaves above it.
How long do preserved flowers last?
They can keep their appearance for a long time, but this depends on the product and its surroundings. Follow any instructions supplied with your flowers too.
Do I need to put my bouquet in the fridge?
There is no need to do so for this home-care routine. Choose a cool spot away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
A question about your bouquet?
Tell us which flowers you have and we can help you care for them.