Expert advice to help your flowers thrive, whether they're in a vase, garden, or pot.
Always use a clean vase. Dirty containers can promote bacterial growth that blocks water uptake, shortening your flowers' lifespan. Wash vases with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly before use.
Trim stems at a 45-degree angle with sharp, clean tools. This increases surface area for water absorption and prevents stem crushing. Remove any leaves that will be below the water line.
Change water every 2–3 days, removing any submerged leaves. Add flower food or a gentle antibacterial agent (like a small amount of bleach—1/4 teaspoon per quart) to keep water fresh and prevent bacterial growth.
Keep flowers away from direct sunlight, heat sources (radiators, appliances), and fruit (which releases ethylene gas that accelerates wilting). Cool, draft-free locations are ideal.
Most cut flowers last longer in cooler temperatures. Keep them away from heat sources and consider placing them in a cool room at night if possible.
Re-cut stems every few days under running water to remove any blocked portions and ensure maximum water uptake. This is especially important for woody stems like roses.
Myth: Adding pennies or aspirin to vase water helps flowers last longer.
Reality: Experts say these methods don't reliably help and sometimes do more harm than good. Clean water, proper stem cutting, and flower food are more effective.
Myth: Cutting stems underwater is always necessary.
Reality: While cutting underwater can help for some flowers, fresh cutting with immediate placement in clean water is more important than the method itself.
Most flowering plants need full sun (6–8 hours) or bright light. Some species prefer partial shade. Research your specific flower's needs. Observe your garden's light patterns throughout the day to choose the right location.
Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is essential. Soil pH matters—for example, hydrangeas change color according to soil acidity. Test your soil pH and amend as needed. Add compost annually to improve soil structure.
Balance is key—neither waterlogged nor bone dry. Morning watering is generally best as it allows leaves to dry before evening, reducing fungal disease risk. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth.
Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal diseases. Monitor for pests like aphids and mites, and manage them early before they spread. Use organic methods when possible, and remove affected leaves promptly.
Use appropriate fertilizers for your flower type. Most benefit from regular feeding during growing season, but avoid over-fertilizing which can harm plants. Follow package directions and fertilize based on plant needs.
Regular deadheading (removing spent blooms) encourages more flowers. Prune according to each species' needs to maintain shape and health. Some flowers benefit from cutting back after first bloom to encourage reblooming.
Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from plant stems to prevent rot.
Prepare plants for winter by cutting back perennials, protecting tender plants, and adding winter mulch. In spring, remove winter protection, divide perennials if needed, and refresh soil with compost.
Orchids require specific care conditions, but with the right knowledge, they can thrive and bloom repeatedly.
Bright but indirect light is ideal. Direct sun can burn orchid leaves. East or west-facing windows work well, or use sheer curtains to filter intense light. Phalaenopsis orchids prefer lower light, while Cattleyas need brighter conditions.
Daytime temperatures of 75–85°F (24–29°C) with cooler nights of 60–65°F (15–18°C) suit many orchid types. This temperature drop can encourage flowering. Avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts.
Ideally 50–70% humidity, or at least 40%. Use humidifiers, pebble trays with water, or group plants together to increase local humidity. Mist leaves in the morning, but avoid getting water in the crown.
Allow roots and growing medium to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid standing water which causes root rot. Water thoroughly, then let excess drain. Water frequency depends on medium, pot size, and environment—typically once a week.
Use balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted according to package directions (usually 1/4 to 1/2 strength). Fertilize more during active growth, less or none during rest periods. "Weakly, weekly" is a good rule—dilute fertilizer and apply regularly.
Repot when growing medium breaks down (usually every 1-2 years) or pot becomes too small. Use orchid-specific potting mix. Cooler nights or slight stress can encourage flowering. Be patient—orchids bloom on their own schedule, often once per year.
Good air movement prevents fungal and bacterial diseases. Use a small fan on low setting, but avoid direct drafts on plants. This is especially important in high-humidity environments.
Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or too much light. Wrinkled leaves suggest underwatering. No blooms? Check light levels, ensure temperature drops at night, and be patient—some orchids need time to mature.