Fresh flowers respond quickly to heat, direct sun and dirty water. Manila’s warm climate makes good care especially important. A few simple steps can help your arrangement look fresh for longer.
Unwrap and inspect the flowers
For a hand-tied bouquet, remove protective packaging carefully. Keep any tie that holds the design together if you want to preserve its shape. Remove leaves that would sit below the water line because submerged foliage encourages bacteria.
Use a clean vase
Wash the vase with soap and rinse it well. Fill it with fresh room-temperature or cool water. If flower food is provided, follow the packet instructions rather than adding extra sugar or household mixtures.
Trim the stems
Use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to cut a small amount from each stem at an angle. This exposes a fresh surface for water uptake. Recut the stems every few days when changing the water.
Choose a cool indoor location
Keep flowers away from direct sun, hot windows, kitchens, appliances and parked vehicles. Strong air-conditioning blowing directly on petals can also dehydrate them. A bright room with indirect light is usually better.
Change the water regularly
Replace cloudy water immediately and refresh clear water every one or two days. Rinse the vase, remove fallen petals and check for soft stems. Top-ups are helpful, but a full water change keeps the arrangement cleaner.
Keep flowers away from ripening fruit
Bananas, mangoes and other ripening fruit release ethylene gas, which can shorten the life of some flowers. Place the arrangement on a different table or counter.
Care for flower boxes
Do not pull the arrangement apart. Check the care card and add a small amount of clean water to the floral medium when it begins to dry, avoiding the petals and decorative box. Keep the box level and protect the surface underneath.
Remove fading flowers
Some varieties naturally last longer than others. Removing a spent stem helps the remaining flowers look better and keeps decaying material out of the water.
After delivery
Bring the gift indoors soon after it arrives. If it was delivered to reception, collect it promptly. For more flower options, browse Blooms, Roses and Vase Arrangements.
Natural flowers have different lifespans, but clean tools, fresh water and a cool location give every arrangement a better start.