How to keep flowers fresh in bouquets, boxes and baskets – advice from florists.

Fresh flowers, the foundation of our stunning floral arrangements, require careful care to stay fresh and beautiful. At Flowers-Thailand, with locations in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket, we use advanced techniques to ensure your flowers arrive in perfect condition. While care instructions may vary depending on the type of arrangement, here are some basic tips for keeping your flowers fresh in Thailand’s warm climate, as well as some additional information on caring for flowers from different sources.

General Flower Care Tips from Flowers-Thailand

  • Use fresh water: Changing the water in your vase regularly is essential. Clean, fresh water helps maintain the vitality of your flowers. According to the Royal Horticultural Society, adding a flower preservative to the water can provide essential nutrients and inhibit bacterial growth, further extending the life of your flowers.
  • Avoid heat and drafts: Flowers should be protected from hot, dry air and drafts. Avoid placing bouquets, baskets, or flower boxes in direct sunlight or on windowsills, as this can significantly shorten their lifespan. Keep them away from vents, kitchen hoods, and direct air from air conditioners or fans, as these can cause rapid dehydration. Numerous scientific studies show that you should maintain a room temperature of about 18–22 °C (65–72 °F) for optimal flower preservation.
  • Keep away from fruits: Ethylene gas emitted by fruits can cause flowers to wilt prematurely. Even with adequate watering, proximity to fruits can shorten their lifespan. The American Floral Endowment (a leading charity in the flower industry) recommends storing flowers away from fruits and vegetables to prevent ethylene damage.
  • Optimal environment: To keep flowers as fresh as possible, place them in a cool room away from direct sunlight and air currents. Regular misting of buds with water can also help extend their life. Be careful not to over-wet the buds, though, as this can have the opposite effect. Using a humidifier can further help maintain humidity levels, which is beneficial for the flowers. Avoid using scented fragrances with a humidifier, as some scents can be harmful to certain flowers.

Fresh flowers, the foundation of our stunning floral arrangements, require careful care to stay fresh and beautiful. At Flowers-Thailand, with locations in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket, we use advanced techniques to ensure your flowers arrive in perfect condition. While care instructions may vary depending on the type of arrangement, here are some basic tips for keeping your flowers fresh in Thailand’s warm climate, as well as some additional information on caring for flowers from different sources.

Tips for Caring for Flower Bouquets

Our delivery service ensures your bouquets are well-protected during transit. We maintain a moist environment at the base of the stems under the decorative wrapping to keep the flowers fresh. During hot weather or peak times, our florists spray the flowers with water and use transport film to maintain freshness for up to two days. However, we recommend placing the bouquet in a vase on the day of delivery.

Vase Preparation: Use a thoroughly cleaned vase to prevent bacteria from shortening the flowers’ lifespan. Trim each stem with a sharp, clean knife at a diagonal angle to increase the water absorption area. For thicker stems, you can split the ends lengthwise. Remove any leaves below the water level to prevent bacterial growth. Change the water every two days, clean the vase, and trim the stems slightly each time. The Society of American Florists suggests adding a few drops of bleach to the vase water to further inhibit bacterial growth.

You can order a bouquet in a glass or ceramic vase from our flower shops in Thailand (Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket). We also offer flower delivery in a classic gift wrap with the option to order a matching vase.

Caring for Flowers in Baskets and Flower Boxes

In our flower baskets and boxes, we use a special floral sponge soaked in water to keep the stems hydrated. The sponge, wrapped in polyethylene to protect the basket or box, ensures the flowers maintain contact with water. On particularly hot days or in dry environments, you may need to add water to the sponge twice a day; otherwise, once a day is sufficient.

Watering the Sponge: Ensure the sponge is evenly soaked. Uneven watering can cause some plants to dry out and die. If a flower or plant dies, remove it to prevent the spread of bacteria. Use a small amount of water and make sure it distributes evenly without spilling into the basket or box. The National Gardening Association recommends using lukewarm water for soaking floral foam to help it absorb water more efficiently.

Additional Tips for Flower Care

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can quickly damage your flowers. Keep them in shaded areas to prolong their freshness. The Royal Horticultural Society advises placing flowers in indirect light to prevent heat stress.

Regular Maintenance: Check your flowers daily for wilting leaves or petals and remove them immediately. This prevents bacterial growth that can affect the entire arrangement. According to the University of Illinois Extension, removing any debris from the water and vase helps maintain a clean environment for the flowers.

Humidity Control: In air-conditioned rooms, flowers can dry out quickly. Maintain a balanced humidity level to keep them fresh. Using a room humidifier can help, but avoid placing it too close to the flowers to prevent over-humidity.

By following these simple yet effective tips from our head florists at Flowers-Thailand, along with additional insights from floral experts, you can enjoy the beauty and freshness of your floral arrangements for many days to come. Whether you’re in Bangkok, Pattaya, or Phuket, our expert florists are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality flowers and the best care advice.

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