Stargazer lilies, a variety of Oriental lily, are prized cut flowers known for their vibrant pink and white coloration and potent, sweet fragrance. These blooms are a popular choice in bouquets, adding drama and height to any arrangement. Their longevity depends entirely on the care they receive from the moment they are brought indoors.
The Expected Vase Life of Stargazers
When given proper attention, Stargazer lilies maintain freshness for seven to fourteen days. The exact length of time is determined by the stage of development when they were purchased or cut. Lilies sourced in the tight, colored bud stage, rather than already fully open, offer the longest vase life.
These flowers bloom sequentially, meaning not all buds on a single stalk open at once. A stalk purchased with several tight buds will continue to unfurl new flowers over a week or more, allowing for an extended display from the same stem. This characteristic makes their overall vase life longer than flowers that open all their blooms simultaneously. The cool environment of your home helps slow the metabolic process, drawing out the time it takes for the buds to mature and open fully.
Essential Steps for Initial Preparation
The first actions taken upon receiving Stargazer lilies are important for ensuring a long vase life. Begin by preparing a clean vase, washing it thoroughly to remove any residue or bacteria that could clog the stems and inhibit water uptake. Next, remove any leaves that would sit below the water line, as submerged foliage quickly decays and introduces harmful bacteria.
The stems should be recut immediately to refresh the vascular system and allow for maximum hydration. Using a sharp knife or shears, trim at least an inch off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. This diagonal cut exposes a greater surface area, preventing the stem from sitting flat and restricting water absorption. Fill the clean vase with fresh, lukewarm water and mix in the floral preservative packet provided by the florist. This packet contains a biocide to control bacterial growth and a small amount of sugar for nourishment.
Daily Care Practices to Extend Bloom
Ongoing daily maintenance is necessary to keep the water clean and the lilies hydrated. The water should be changed every two to three days, or whenever it appears cloudy, to minimize the buildup of microorganisms that can block the stems. Each time the water is changed, it is beneficial to give the stems another small, angled trim to maintain optimal water intake.
The placement of the vase significantly impacts the flowers’ longevity. Stargazers should be kept in a cool location away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or drafts. Lilies are sensitive to ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone released by ripening fruit, so keep the arrangement away from fruit bowls.
As the flowers open, gently remove the prominent pollen-bearing anthers before they shed their dusty orange pollen. This prevents the pollen from staining the white petals. Removing the anthers may also extend the bloom time by inhibiting the energy-intensive process of seed development. Removing any spent or withered blooms helps redirect the stalk’s remaining energy toward opening the newer, unopened buds.