Flower Care
How Long Do Cut Flowers Last? 10 Ways to Make Them Last Longer
8 October 2026
Most hand-tied bouquets last around 5 to 10 days with good care, though some flowers (like carnations and chrysanthemums) can last two weeks or more, while others (like tulips and peonies) are naturally shorter-lived.
10 ways to make flowers last longer
- ✿Re-cut the stems at an angle as soon as you get them, removing at least 2cm
- ✿Use a clean vase — bacteria in a dirty vase is one of the biggest causes of early wilting
- ✿Use the flower food sachet provided, or a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of vinegar if you don't have one
- ✿Change the water every 2 days, re-trimming stems each time
- ✿Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline — submerged leaves rot and breed bacteria
- ✿Keep the vase away from direct sunlight, radiators, and other heat sources
- ✿Keep flowers away from ripening fruit, which releases ethylene gas that speeds up wilting
- ✿Move flowers somewhere cooler overnight if possible — florists often keep stock in a cool room for this reason
- ✿Remove wilted blooms promptly so they don't affect the rest of the bouquet
- ✿Top up water levels daily — flowers drink more than people expect, especially in the first few days
Frequently Asked Questions
Which flowers last the longest?
Chrysanthemums, carnations, and alstroemeria are among the longest-lasting cut flowers, often lasting two weeks or more with good care.
Which flowers wilt the fastest?
Tulips, peonies, and hydrangeas tend to have shorter vase lives, often 4-7 days, though proper care can still extend this somewhat.
Does the flower food sachet actually make a difference?
Yes — it contains a mix of sugar (food for the flowers), an acidifier, and an anti-bacterial agent, which together noticeably extend vase life compared to plain water.