8 Common Flower Care Mistakes and How to Fix Them

#1: Leaving Leaves Below the Water Line
❌ Why it’s bad: Leaves sitting in water rot quickly, creating bacteria that shorten the lifespan of your flowers.
✅ Fix it: Always remove any leaves that will be submerged in water before placing your flowers in a vase.

#2: Not Changing the Water Regularly
❌ Why it’s bad: Stagnant water encourages bacteria growth, leading to slimy stems and wilting flowers.
✅ Fix it: Change the water every 2 days and clean the vase thoroughly each time to keep it fresh.

#3: Cutting Stems Straight Instead of at an Angle
❌ Why it’s bad: A straight cut can block water uptake, preventing flowers from staying hydrated.
✅ Fix it: Always cut stems at a 45-degree angle with clean, sharp scissors or a knife to maximise water absorption.

#4: Placing Flowers Near Heat or Direct Sunlight
❌ Why it’s bad: Heat speeds up the ageing process and causes flowers to wilt much faster.
✅ Fix it: Keep flowers in a cool, shaded spot away from direct sunlight, radiators, or heat vents.

#5: Forgetting to Re-Cut Stems Every Few Days
❌ Why it’s bad: Stems seal up over time, making it harder for flowers to drink water.
✅ Fix it: Re-cut stems every 2-3 days to keep them open and allow for better hydration.

#6: Using a Dirty Vase
❌ Why it’s bad: Residue from old flowers harbours bacteria that contaminate fresh water.
✅ Fix it: Wash your vase with warm, soapy water to remove bacteria before adding new flowers

#7: Skipping Flower Food
❌ Why it’s bad: Flowers need nutrients to thrive, and plain water doesn’t provide enough.
✅ Fix it: Always use the flower food sachet that comes with your bouquet—it contains a mix of nutrients, acidifiers, and antibacterial agents to extend flower life.

#8: Keeping Flowers Near Fruit
❌ Why it’s bad: Ripening fruit releases ethylene gas, which causes flowers to age and wilt faster.
✅ Fix it: Keep flowers away from fruit bowls, especially bananas and apples!

By avoiding these mistakes and following these simple fixes, your flowers will stay fresher and more beautiful for days longer! 🌿✨. Send this post to a friend who loves flowers as much as you do... they will thank you for it!