🌸 How to Make Your Flowers Last Longer

Expert Tips from Flowers by Mike NY

Nothing lights up a room—or someone’s heart—like a fresh bouquet of flowers. Whether it’s a birthday, a sympathy gesture, or a spontaneous “just because” surprise, fresh flowers deserve to be enjoyed for as long as possible.

At Flowers by Mike NY, we’re here to help. Below are our top florist-approved tips to make your blooms last longer and stay vibrant day after day.

✂️ 1. Trim the Stems (Yes, Every Time!)

When your bouquet arrives, trim each stem at a 45° angle, about one inch from the bottom. This opens up the stem’s vascular system to absorb water more easily.

💡 Pro tip: Re-trim the stems every 2–3 days for long-lasting hydration.

💧 2. Start with a Clean Vase & Fresh Water

Would you drink from a dirty glass? Neither would your flowers!Clean your vase with soap and warm water, fill with lukewarm water, and mix in your flower food packet (included with every order).

🌱 No flower food? Mix: 1 tsp sugar + splash of lemon juice + tiny drop of bleach.

🌤️ 3. Avoid Direct Sunlight & Heat

Place your flowers in a cool, shaded area, away from windows, radiators, and heat vents.☀️ Too much sun = fast wilting.

🍎 Bonus tip: Keep them away from ripening fruit. The ethylene gas speeds up wilting!

❄️ 4. Store Them in the Fridge Overnight

It may sound surprising, but placing your bouquet in the fridge overnight (set to a safe 40–50°F) helps them last longer—just like fresh produce.

🌙 Let them rest at night so they can shine by day!

🍂 5. Remove Wilting Leaves & Petals

As your flowers age, remove any faded or browning petals and leaves. This keeps your bouquet clean and helps prevent bacteria growth.

✨ A little maintenance goes a long way.

🌼 Bonus: Start with Fresh, Local Flowers

The best way to extend flower life? Start fresh. Stay local.At Flowers by Mike NY, we hand-select each stem, design your bouquet with love, and deliver it fresh from our shop in:

📍 East Rockaway, NY📍 Oceanside, NY📍 Rockville Centre & surrounding areas

🌼 Frequently Asked Questions

About Making Flowers Last Longer

Does sugar help flowers last longer?

Yes—sugar provides essential nutrients that feed the flowers. That’s why florist packets often contain sugar. If you don’t have one, try mixing 1 tsp sugar with a splash of lemon juice and a tiny drop of bleach in lukewarm water.

What can I put in water to keep flowers fresh longer?

A homemade solution of sugar, lemon juice, and bleach helps nourish your flowers while keeping bacteria away. Fresh lukewarm water and a clean vase are equally important!

Does vinegar make flowers last longer?

A small splash of white vinegar can help kill bacteria in the water, which keeps stems clean and allows them to absorb water better.

What liquid keeps flowers fresh the longest?

Lukewarm water with flower food (or a homemade mix) changed every 2–3 days is the best solution. Cold water slows down hydration, and hot water can damage stems.

Do pennies keep flowers fresh?

Some say the copper in pennies has antibacterial effects, but it's not as reliable as proper floral care. We recommend sticking to proven methods like trimming stems, clean vases, and flower food.

What is a good substitute for flower food?

Make your own with 1 tsp sugar + 1 tsp lemon juice + a drop of bleach per quart of water.

Does hairspray preserve flowers?

Hairspray can be used to preserve dried flowers, but it’s not recommended for fresh flowers—it can clog stems and limit water intake.

How do I preserve my bouquet?

For fresh flowers: trim stems, use clean water, and store them in a cool place.For long-term keepsakes: air-dry the bouquet upside down, press the flowers, or use silica gel for preservation.

🚚 Same-Day Flower Delivery in East Rockaway & Oceanside

Need flowers delivered today? We’ve got you covered.

✅ Same-day delivery available in:• East Rockaway, NY• Oceanside, NY• Rockville Centre, Lynbrook, Baldwin & more

🛍️ Order online: www.flowersbymikeny.com📞 Call us: (516) 517-2500

Sweet Embrace Peonies

Buy Now

🌺 From Our Family to Yours

Every bouquet we make is crafted with intention, beauty, and heart.We’re a family-owned floral studio where creativity meets care—and every bloom tells a story.

📝 Stay tuned for more floral tips, style guides, and stories from our team right here in Oceanside and East Rockaway.