Boost Your Vase Life: The Simple Kitchen Tricks to Keep Your Blooms Fresh Longer

You’ve just unpacked a gorgeous bouquet from FlowerSuppliers.co.uk, and you want those petals looking perfect for as long as possible. Before you reach for specialised flower food, try one of these two kitchen staples—vinegar or sugar—to extend the life of your cut blooms. (Just pick one, not both together!)

Why Vinegar or Sugar?

Vinegar (white or apple cider) lowers the water’s pH, slowing bacterial growth at the stem ends.
Sugar gives flowers an energy boost, feeding their stems so they keep opening and looking vibrant.

Both are cost-effective, eco-friendly tweaks that work with the natural biology of your flowers—perfect for a sustainable home florist approach.

How to Use Each Method

Vinegar Treatment

Clean your vase thoroughly to remove any lingering bacteria.
Fill with 1 – 2 cm of fresh, cool water.
Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar per 500 ml of water.
Trim your stems at a 45° angle and remove any leaves below the water line.
Arrange your flowers and place them in a cool, draft-free spot.
Top up with plain water as you need it—no more vinegar after the first fill.

Sugar Treatment

Sterilise your vase in warm, soapy water.
Fill with 500 ml of fresh water.
Stir in 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar until dissolved.
Re-cut stems on the slant and strip off any foliage below the surface.
Pop your blooms in and enjoy.
Refresh: Every two days, empty the vase, clean it again, and start fresh with sugar water.

Which Flowers Benefit Most?

Vinegar: Best for roses, lilies, and any flower prone to early bacterial blockages.
Sugar: Ideal for tulips, daffodils and spring bulbs that need an energy boost to unfurl fully.

Of course, both methods can help a wide range of stems—feel free to experiment!

Quick Tips for Extra Longevity

Keep it cool: Flowers last longer out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
Trim regularly: A fresh cut every couple of days helps water uptake.
Remove wilted blooms: Stops ethylene gas from speeding up ageing in the rest of the bouquet.

Give these easy kitchen hacks a go and watch your fresh flowers stay perky for days on end. Ready to put them to the test? Browse our latest selection of seasonal blooms and start experimenting today!