Let’s be honest, when it comes to taking the time and effort to lengthen the lifespan of a bouquet, most of us only do step one (let them drink water). Since all flora are living things that also need love and attention, adding in a few extra steps can help them last a few days longer.

Floral designer and founder of Don de L’Amour , Amy Thai, has been providing this kind of care to buds and stems since the days she lived and trained in Paris . While living abroad in one of the most admired cities in the world, she created floral arrangements for store displays, runway shows and exclusive events for some of fashion’s most iconic haute couture houses (Dior and Givenchy – just to name a couple!), so she knows how to work with short-shelf life products.

Image credit: Kristina Yenko

“Flowers can lift the imagination and senses to create memorable moments for any occasion. There is something so beautiful about their ephemeral nature and truly appreciating and experiencing them as they are,” Thai tells Vogue Living . With this in mind, she shares her expert knowledge on how to care for cut flowers and where to find the best blooms this season in Sydney.

Image credit: Kristina Yenko Trim and soak (only)

“To maximise the longevity of flowers, cut two to three centimetres off the stems at a 45-degree angle so it can absorb more water. The fresh-cut opens up their ‘pores’ and hydrates them properly. Remove any packaging and place them into a vase with fresh cold tap water, two-thirds full. Make sure to replace the water and recut the stems every two to three days.

Another tip is to never mist your flowers from above. Flowers should always drink water from the stems. As a result of having moisture on petals, most flowers will decay quicker. The few exceptions to this rule include hydrangeas and phalaenopsis orchids – they love water!”

Image credit: Kristina Yenko Peel off the outer petals

“To keep your flowers looking lush, peel off the ‘guard’ petals. These are the outer withered petals that keep the flower protected. Some people mistake this for the flowers being damaged, but in fact, it indicates freshness. As days pass, the outer petals will turn brown. It’s important to know that this is a natural process.” Keep it clean

“When changing the water regularly, keep your vase sparkling clean and free from any dirt or residue. Remove any foliage from stems that submerge below the water. Any foliage in the water increases the bacteria growth and reduces the life of your bouquet.”

Image credit: Kristina Yenko Think about placement

“Once the flowers are cut, keep them in any cool place in your home. Do not let them get too much direct sunlight or sit somewhere too hot. Otherwise, the flowers will bloom faster and the lifespan will shorten.Select a vase in which the bouquet can […]