The variety
Some cut flowers only last one day in a vase, while others can last up to three weeks. Even among the same species, there can be significant differences in longevity between types and cultivars. For instance, single-stem sunflowers live several days longer than their branched counterparts. There are various products on the market that can extend vase life, but there is still a limit to how long a given variety can last. In her book The Flower Farmer, Lynn Byczynski provides a comprehensive list of the vase life of 100 commonly grown flower varieties.
Harvesting stage
The best time to harvest most flowers is before they are in full bloom because once in water, they continue to unfurl. Picking them at this early stage, before they are fully open, ensures a longer vase life for the customer.
Harvesting time
Ideally, flowers should be picked in the morning or evening, when temperatures are lower. Harvesting during hot weather can hinder the flowers’ ability to absorb water, leading to a shorter lifespan.
Post-harvest temperature and light
Flowers that are subjected to heat and direct sunlight after harvesting will suffer and die prematurely, so it’s crucial to refrigerate them as soon as possible, until the moment they are sold. Each variety has its ideal storage temperature for prolonging vase life. In short, all flowers benefit from being stored in a refrigerated room at the right temperature and away from direct sunlight.
Cleanliness
After being cut, flowers absorb water through their stems. Bacteria can obstruct the stem’s cells, hindering water absorption and leading to early wilting. Therefore, preventing bacterial contamination is crucial. Anything that touches the flowers must be extremely clean: shears, water, buckets, and vases. Before each use, thoroughly clean everything with soap and an appropriate disinfectant, such as bleach, and leave tools to dry in the sun. If the stems are dirty, for instance after a heavy rain, clean them first, then put them in fresh water.