The Complete Flower Care Guide | Harakeke Florist Christchurch

There's nothing quite like the joy of receiving fresh flowers. With a little care, your bouquet can stay beautiful for many days, and some flowers can even last for two weeks or more.

At Harakeke Florist, we carefully select premium fresh flowers so you can enjoy them for as long as possible. Follow these simple tips to help your flowers thrive.

1. Start with a Clean Vase

Before arranging your flowers, wash your vase thoroughly with hot, soapy water. A clean vase removes bacteria that can shorten the life of fresh flowers.

2. Trim the Stems

Using sharp secateurs or scissors, trim 1–2cm from the bottom of each stem at a slight angle before placing them into fresh water.

Re-cut the stems every two to three days to help them absorb water more efficiently.

3. Use Fresh Water

Fill your vase with cool, fresh water and change it every two to three days. Fresh water keeps bacteria to a minimum and helps your flowers stay hydrated.

If flower food is provided, add it to the water according to the instructions.

4. Keep Flowers Cool

Fresh flowers last longest in a cool room away from:

• Direct sunlight
• Heat pumps
• Fireplaces
• Heaters
• Hot kitchen windows

In Christchurch winters, heating can quickly dry flowers, so keeping them away from direct heat will significantly extend their vase life.

5. Remove Fading Blooms

As flowers naturally age, remove spent blooms and any leaves sitting below the waterline. This keeps the arrangement looking beautiful while reducing bacteria.

6. Keep Fruit Away

Fresh fruit releases ethylene gas, which causes flowers to age more quickly. Display your flowers away from bowls of fruit whenever possible.

Flower Care for Popular Seasonal Flowers

Tulips

Tulips continue to grow after being cut and naturally bend towards light. Keep them in fresh, cool water and avoid overfilling the vase.

Expected vase life: 5–7 days.

Oriental Lilies

Remove pollen as the flowers open to prevent staining. Lilies enjoy fresh water and will continue opening over several days.

Expected vase life: 10–14 days.

Roses

Re-cut stems every few days and replace the water regularly. Remove any guard petals if desired.

Expected vase life: 7–10 days.

Chrysanthemums

One of the longest-lasting cut flowers available. They thrive in clean water and cooler temperatures.

Expected vase life: 10–21 days.

Earlicheer (Paperwhite Narcissus)

Known for their beautiful fragrance, Erlicheer flowers prefer cool conditions and fresh water.

Expected vase life: Around 5–7 days.

Jasmine

Fragrant jasmine continues opening over several days. Keep stems well hydrated and display in a cool room away from direct heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the water?

Every two to three days is ideal.

Should I cut the stems again?

Yes. Re-cutting the stems every few days helps your flowers absorb water and stay fresher for longer.

Why are my flowers wilting?

The most common causes are dirty water, blocked stems, direct heat, or insufficient water.

How long should fresh flowers last?

Most professionally arranged flowers will last between one and two weeks, depending on the flower varieties and how they are cared for.

Fresh Flowers Delivered Throughout Christchurch

At Harakeke Florist, we're passionate about creating beautiful seasonal flowers using the freshest blooms available. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, sending sympathy flowers, or simply brightening your home, we're here to help you enjoy your flowers for as long as possible.

If you have any questions about caring for your flowers, our friendly team is always happy to help.