Flower Guide
WHICH FRESH CUT FLOWERS LAST THE LONGEST?
Have you ever held the most beautiful of this ephemeral phenomenon and gotten terrified of the thought of having to wake up the next day and discover them withered; faded into oblivion? Garden fresh flowers get worshipped in the day and stepped over not long after. One cannot help but wonder if there are some of these flowers that defy this law of mortality.
This article written by our expert florist will take you on a journey to immortality and guide you in discovering the flowers that last the longest. Some of the most important of these flowers are:
- Zinnia
The American plant of the daisy family is widely cultivated for its bright and eye-catching red flowers. True to its emblem, it symbolizes endurance and has been rightly named as the number one longest lasting flower because of it can last a total of 24 days. Howbeit, the water must be changed every two days.
- Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums can vivify your place for up to 4 weeks! They give you more value for your money. When next you meet your florist, get those nice long stems and trim a small section every other day. The only caveat is that these captivating blossoms are attention demanding. You must change the water every day and give them proper care so that they can attain their full potential.
- Orchids
These perennial plants are epiphytic herbs. Most species manufacture their own food but some are saprophytic in nature. Orchids love indirect sunlight. Cymbidiums, often called “boat orchids” are the longest lasting of the orchids lasting up to three weeks if well-watered. They are more robust than their other equivalents. This means that their petals are less likely to become damaged. Did you know Cymbidiums first became popular in Europe during the Victorian era?
- Carnation
The herbaceous perennial plant can tower up to 80cm in height. They are widely used in cut floral arrangements and for boutonnieres. They are also worn traditionally on Mothers’ day. They blossom in red, white, pink, rose, yellow, orange, and bio colours. They last anywhere between two to three weeks, which is one of the reasons they are a very popular choice in the UK but always make sure to throw away leaves or petals that touch the water in the vase.
- Delphiniums
The flowers can easily be harmed by gases but apart from that, they stay in a great condition for about two weeks radiating their blue and purple trademark. They grow all year round.
- Alstroemeria
Also known as the Peruvian lily. It comes in different colours as well. Its dark flecks make it easily spotted by most people. Also, the streak on the petals is a characteristic. They can last up to 14 days.
Note that Alstroemeria leaves yellow and wilt before the flowers bloom fully. Do not get distracted by this.
- Gladiolus
10 days is quite decent for the water loving Gladiolus flowers. Sometimes called the “sword lily”. They require proper care. They pay you back by being aesthetically pleasing to your eyes. Ensure your water them properly on a daily basis.
- Freesias
Freesias are iridescent flowers. Its flowers are fragrant, funnel-shaped, and are ornamental. The flowers are mainly used in wedding bouquets. They last for about 2 weeks and are best in late spring and early fall.
- Sunflowers
Sunflowers have been one of the most popular choices over several decades. They are rich in history and meaning. They last for 1-2 weeks. They are best enjoyed in early summer and early fall.
- Dahlias
It is native to Mexico. It was declared the national flower of Mexico in 1963. Dahlias are annual blooming plants, with mostly tuberous roots. The flowers are mostly radiant purple. It can last for up to a week.
Other notable mentions are:
- A vase of white lilies looks so clean and elegant. How can you keep them in that way? The first step is cutting stems at a 45 degree angle before placing them in water. Remove pollen buds before they cause a nuisance in your house. They may cause allergies. Lilies can last up to 2 weeks.
- These endearing balls look like colourful dandelions. Alliums are resistant to drought. They can last for up to three weeks.
You can enjoy your flowers and make the most of them irrespective of their lifespans but taking into consideration how long they will last will help in you in picking the right flower bouquet for the right event. Each flower has its own peculiarities and how you handle them should be different.
Also, you can always employ daily hacks such as: pruning, using vodka, apple cider vinegar + sugar, putting them in the fridge, etc. to help them last even longer. Your choice of any of the long lasting flowers to use depends on what you aim to achieve.
Mimicking the flowers’ natural environment will also make them last longer. Your local florist should further guide you in utilizing the exact kind of long lasting flowers that will match your goals.
