Keep cut flowers fresh longer - what really helps?

Viagra, aspirin, sugar, old copper pfennig or new Eurocent have one thing in common: they are all supposed to help cut flowers to last longer. But what about the old traditions and new achievements?

First cutting and water absorption

As soon as flowers in the greenhouse, in the field or in the garden lose contact with the root, they depend on water over their stem cross-section. The cells pick it up and so can bouquets for a few days, sometimes weeks, colorful or plain? in any case decorative? delight. However, once flowers are cut off from the water for 15 minutes, they need support. Get air, dry the stalk ends. That's why cutting is so important, even if the florist is just around the corner. This reopens the line for water absorption. If you are on the way for a longer time, it may be a good idea to wrap the stems in damp cotton wool or household rolls and to give them a plastic bag. Tied up at the top holds the moisture.

Avoid attacking bacteria

Flower fresheners contain sugar as well as bacteria-inhibiting substances. So it probably also happens that some grab the sugar bowl at home. But in addition to the flowers are fed with the bacteria, which is why experts advise against it. These close the lines. The birthday bouquet is good for when there are no leaves under water and the vase is filled with fresh water every two days. In this rhythm you should also cut the flowers again. Best oblique and with a sharp knife. For soft stems, such as a gerbera, would otherwise arise in a crushing by paper cutting another point of attack for bacteria. By the way, who slimy? Cut flowers, it should keep away from the other mating or after the first cut separately.


To bring the water to woody flowers, you cut the stem five inches. If you prefer the Hammer method, the ends are wide. Professionals dip the stems of sunflowers, roses or lilac into boiling water for a few seconds. This will push the air out of the line. Lilac is still difficult in the unfolding, so it is better to put him in the vase only in the inflated state.

Aspirin?

When adding aspirin, the researchers are at odds. Some jargonatively declare that flower heads react differently than human heads, while others acknowledge the slow process of withering with the addition of aspirin. Here, they refer to the acetylsalicylic acid contained therein.

Copper coin?

But what about the copper coins? It is correct that when copper is released into water, bacterial growth can be restricted. But the life of cut flowers is actually too short for enough copper to find its way. With a dash of vinegar or lemon juice is helped faster.

Viagra?

For long-term persistence should be useful, according to a study, the power Viagra. Due to the active ingredient sildenafil, the tested flowers were stable for another week. In the long run, however, that could be quite expensive.

How To Keep Cut Flowers Fresh | March 2024