How To Keep Flowers Looking Fresh For As Long As Possible

When flower shopping at the markets, what should we look out for?
“It's best to go to your recommended local grower or florist for flowers. Seasonal, locally grown in support of local growers and the industry is very important as it is supporting your local florists and small businesses. Flowers that are in freshly-picked or as close to condition, being buds that are still closed or roses whose heads are still firm, will have the best longevity. Also look at the colour and condition of the foliage; deep lush greens are what you're after, this can tell you a lot about the condition of a flower or plant.” 

How do you choose what flowers bunch together? Are some not compatible with others?
“Everyone has their own style, there are no wrong or rights here, just like art, it's subjective. My own personal style has evolved and was first inspired by nature and partially the gardens of Paris where I spent years living. I love a loose and rambling arrangement of flowers like something you might see in the Jardin des Tuileries, nothing forced but as you would see growing in nature herself. What has become a signature of mine is choosing and styling flowers of the same type en masse and the beauty in sourcing and selecting just the right vase or rare antique object that best compliments the form and shape of flowers as the arrangement itself.”

Are there any flowers that are hayfever-friendly?
“Allergy friendly choices include begonia, clematis, columbine, crocus, daffodil, hydrangea, iris, orchids or, even better, potted orchids are a lovely option for the home or as a gift, periwinkle, roses, and tulips.”

What are some tips to ensure a fresh bouquet lasts as long as possible?
– Trim stems on an acute angle daily and refresh and change their water regularly.
– Add fresh water to a clean vase.
– 2 Tbsp sugar added to the water can help nourish the flowers and promote opening of the blooms.
– 2 Tbsp white vinegar helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and keeps your flowers fresher longer
– Remove all lower leaves from flowers so there won't be any in the water as foliage makes the water rancid.
– Cut 1 to 2 inches off the stems at an acute angle while they are under water and arrange your flowers in the vase, in water.
– Change the water every other day and re-cut the stems each time.

Does the placement in your home impact their longevity? 
“Choose a position that best shows off your arrangement, with ample space for the vessel and flowers to shine, such as a mantle piece, plinth or dining table. Ensure the placement is away from direct sunlight or window sills, as the sun will cause the flowers to wilt and impact their longevity. Balance the composition of your arrangement with complimentary objects such as candles, sculptures, books and art to really bring ambience and life to your home.” 

How can we preserve our flowers forever?
“Wild flowers and natives are a beautiful way to hold onto your flowers as they dry well, some even can be purchased and grow dried, such as paper daisies. Pressing flowers is another beautiful way to preserve blooms, as is air drying your bouquet. Simply remove from water before they begin to wilt and using a ribbon and elastic band hang in a warm spot to dry out.”