How to Keep Your Flowers Alive After You Receive Them
Tips from Jenny Barker, The Flower Doctor
So, you just received a gorgeous bouquet—whether it was a surprise delivery, a romantic gesture, or a gift to yourself, it’s stunning. You admire it, pop it on your counter… and do nothing else. A couple of days later, you’re wondering: Why are my flowers already wilting?
Here’s the truth: keeping flowers alive is all about how you treat them after they arrive. Below are some flower-saving tips from my 30 years of experience as The Flower Doctor.
1. Check the Water Immediately
Believe it or not, sometimes, when flowers are delivered, there’s no water in the vase—or very little. Maybe the delivery driver spilled some in transit or the arrangement didn’t have a full tank to begin with. So step one: the moment you receive flowers, check for enough water in the vase or vessel. If it feels light, add water immediately.
2. The First 24 Hours Matter Most
Flowers are still thirsty and adjusting after being cut and arranged. During those first 24 hours, hydration is crucial. Make sure the flowers are drinking and fully submerged in clean water.
3. Change the Water Often—Not Just Add to It
Old flower water breeds bacteria that clog stems and shorten the life of your bouquet. Always dump the old water and refill it with fresh water every 1 to 2 days.
Tip: If your arrangement is in a ceramic vase and you can’t see the water, check daily.
4. Keep Flowers Away from Heat and Direct Sunlight
Place your flowers in a cool spot, away from sunny windows, stoves, or heat vents. Room temperature has a significant effect on flower longevity.
5. Know Your Source
Here at Magical Blooms, we only send out arrangements immediately after designing them. No days-old cooler stock. And because we’re a farm flower shop, our blooms last longer—cut straight from the farm and delivered without a middleman.
Most flower shops can’t say that. Their flowers may sit in the cooler for days before they’re sold, and by the time you get them, they’ve already begun to decline.
6. Want to Design Your Own?
Did you know we offer DIY flower boxes shipped nationwide? They’re called Flower Prescriptions, and each box contains over 100 farm-fresh stems, curated with intention—for birthdays, romance, get-well wishes, or “just because.” It’s the best gift to give and receive.
Final Thoughts
Caring for flowers is a ritual. If you do it right—especially in the first few days—your blooms can last up to two weeks. If you don't, they might only last two to three days.
Remember:
• Always check water levels when you receive flowers
• Change the water completely every 1–2 days
• Don’t just add water—clean the vase and start fresh
• Keep them away from heat sources and direct sunlight
For more tips and behind-the-scenes flower magic, follow us on Instagram @MagicalBlooms, visit our website at jennybarkertheflowerdoctor.com
Your flowers deserve the same love they were designed with.
Let them bloom and last!
Jenny Barker, The Flower Doctor