As UK temperatures continue to soar, cut flower bouquets may start wilting much quicker than normal. Sandra Varley, flower expert at Flying Flowers, has shared a simple and free technique to revive drooping blooms in just 30 minutes.
The 30-minute revival trick
Sandra says: "When temperatures climb, cut flowers lose moisture far faster, so even a freshly bought bouquet can start to wilt within a couple of days if it's not looked after properly."
"The good news is that a few simple changes can help extend the life of your flowers, even during a heatwave."
If your blooms look droopy, Sandra advises: "A simple revival trick is to remove the stems from the vase and submerge the flower heads in cold water for 30 minutes. Afterwards, re-cut the stems at an angle before placing them back in fresh water."
Trim 1-2 cm from the stems
Sandra explains that during warmer weather, flowers need to absorb water as rapidly as possible. "The ends of bouquet stems can become dry or sealed during transport, making it harder for water to travel up the stem. Trimming 1-2 cm from each stem, at an angle, creates a fresh surface for water uptake and can dramatically improve hydration."
Using a clean vase is also important, as bacterial growth accelerates in warmer conditions and can block stems from absorbing water properly.
Keep flowers topped up with fresh, cool water
Sandra advises: "Heat causes water to evaporate much faster, so during a heatwave make sure to check your vase every day and keep it topped up with fresh, cool water. If the water starts to look cloudy, replace it completely and give the vase a quick rinse to reduce bacteria, which is one of the biggest causes of premature wilting."
For extra support during warm spells, she suggests gently misting the flower petals with a spray bottle to maintain hydration levels.
Don't skip the flower food
Flower food becomes particularly crucial during warmer weather, as it supplies essential nutrients and inhibits bacterial growth. Sandra advises using the ready-made sachet supplied with bouquets and adding fresh flower food each time water is changed. "If you run out of the sachet and can't get any more, you can make your own flower food by combining a litre of water with one tablespoon of vinegar and one teaspoon of sugar as a quick backup."
Avoid placing bouquets in direct sunlight
During a heatwave, it's advisable to position cut flowers in a cool, shaded spot away from sunny windows and heat-generating appliances. Sandra also warns against placing flowers directly in the airflow of a fan or air conditioning unit, as this can dehydrate petals and foliage. "If your home gets particularly warm, moving your bouquet to the coolest room overnight can also help extend its lifespan."
She also suggests opting for a slightly larger vase with a broader neck to improve air circulation around the stems.
