Fresh Flower Care Guide: 7 Essential Tips to Make Bouquets Last Longer in Kenya

You’ve just received a stunning bouquet—a burst of colour and life for your home or office. Now, the mission begins: how do you keep that beauty thriving under the Nairobi sun? With our warmer climate and varying conditions, a few simple, expert tricks can add days, even a week, to your fresh flowers Nairobi.

Here are 7 essential tips to make your bouquets last longer and bloom brighter.

1. The First Cut is Crucial

Before placing stems in water, re-cut them at a 45-degree angle. Use a sharp knife or shears, not scissors, which can crush the vessels. This creates a larger surface area for water uptake. Pro tip: Do this underwater in a bowl if possible to prevent air bubbles from blocking the stem—a game-changer for long-lasting roses and lilies.

2. Banish the Leaves, Welcome the Water

Immediately remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline. Submerged leaves decay quickly, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that will cloud the water and shorten your bouquet’s life. A clean stem equals clean water.

3. Choose Your Vase Wisely & Clean It Thoroughly

A clean vase is non-negotiable. Wash it with hot, soapy water and a dash of bleach or vinegar to kill any lingering bacteria. The size matters, too—ensure the vase is tall enough to support stems and provides ample water volume.

4. The Water Recipe: Cool, Clean, & Nourishing

Fill your vase with cool, clean water. In Kenya, where tap water can be hard, using filtered or bottled water can sometimes help. Then, add the flower food packet provided! This isn’t just filler; it contains sugars for nourishment, acidifiers to balance pH, and biocides to fight bacteria. If you’ve run out, a DIY mix of a teaspoon of sugar, a few drops of bleach, and a splash of lemon juice can be a temporary substitute.

5. Location, Location, Location

Place your arrangement in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight, heating vents, ceiling fans, and—this is key—away from your fruit bowl. Ripening fruit emits ethylene gas, a natural compound that accelerates wilting in flowers like carnations and gerberas.

6. The Daily Ritual: Water & Check

Change the water completely every two days. This is the single most effective habit. When you do, re-cut the stems by an inch to reopen their drinking channels. Remove any wilting blooms or leaves to keep the arrangement fresh and prevent rot from spreading.

7. The Overnight Refresh

For a quick revival if flowers begin to droop, try the “overnight spa.” Submerge the entire bouquet (head and all) in a bathtub or large bucket of cool water for a few hours or overnight. Many flowers, especially hydrangeas, can rehydrate dramatically with this method.

A little mindful care transforms a fleeting gift into a lasting joy. By following these simple steps, you can extend the life and beauty of your fresh flower bouquets, ensuring every stem delivers its maximum delight.

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