Wedding flowers represent a significant investment and are a focal point of the celebration, making their freshness a priority. Maintaining their vibrancy requires understanding their basic physiological needs from the moment they are received until the final photograph. Proper care is a systematic approach to managing hydration, nutrition, and environment to maximize the longevity of every bloom. This guide focuses on the specific actions necessary to preserve the beauty of wedding florals.
Initial Care Upon Arrival
The first steps taken when flowers arrive are foundational for their survival. Cut flowers quickly develop air bubbles (embolisms) in their vascular system after being harvested, which blocks water uptake. To clear these, the stems must be re-cut at a sharp, 45-degree angle immediately before placing them into water. Cutting the stem at an angle increases the surface area exposed to water and prevents the stem from sitting flush against the bottom of the vase.
This re-cutting procedure should ideally be done while the stem end is submerged underwater to prevent air from entering the vessels. The water used for this initial conditioning should be lukewarm, allowing for faster absorption by the flower. This quick rehydration process is known as hardening, which builds the flower’s resilience.
The water solution requires a commercial flower food, which is specially formulated with three main ingredients: sugar, an acidifier, and a biocide. The sugar acts as a food source, the acidifier lowers the water’s pH to improve uptake, and the biocide inhibits bacterial growth. Commercial solutions are recommended over do-it-yourself alternatives because they contain a precise biocide to control microbial growth fueled by the sugar.
Before placing the flowers into their conditioned water, all leaves and foliage that would fall below the water line must be removed. Submerged plant material decomposes rapidly, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. This microbial growth produces sticky residues that clog the flower’s vascular bundles, leading to wilting. After this initial preparation, flowers need a minimum of four to six hours to fully rehydrate before being arranged or stored long-term.
Optimal Storage Environment
Maintaining the correct environment slows the flower’s natural aging process. The ideal temperature for storing most non-tropical cut flowers is cool, typically between 33°F and 38°F (1°C to 3°C). This low temperature slows the flower’s respiration rate, reducing the depletion of internal energy reserves and prolonging vase life. Tropical varieties, however, require a warmer temperature, generally between 50°F and 55°F (10°C to 13°C), to prevent chilling damage.
Fluctuations in temperature or exposure to excessive heat accelerate the flower’s development, resulting in a shorter bloom period. Flowers should be kept away from all sources of direct heat, such as sunlight, radiators, or hot air vents, as well as extreme cold drafts. Direct sunlight causes rapid dehydration and overheating, which stresses the blooms.
A major threat to floral freshness is ethylene gas, an odorless plant hormone that accelerates aging (senescence), causing petal drop and wilting. This gas is naturally produced by ripening fruits, so flowers must be stored far away from any fruit bowls or produce. Other external sources of ethylene include cigarette smoke and vehicle exhaust, which can prematurely damage the flowers.
The water level must be checked daily and replenished, as flowers are constant drinkers. If the water becomes cloudy or murky, it should be entirely replaced with a fresh solution of water and flower food. Changing the water regularly prevents a buildup of microorganisms that could clog the stems. High humidity, ideally around 90% to 95%, is also beneficial during storage, as it helps prevent moisture loss from the petals and leaves.
Day-of Handling and Transportation
The logistics of the wedding day require mindful handling to ensure flowers remain hydrated until the final moments. Bridal and bridesmaid bouquets should be kept in a vase of conditioned water for as long as possible. They should only be removed immediately before the ceremony or photographs, and they should be returned to water during any lulls in activity.
Items without stems, such as boutonnieres, corsages, and floral crowns, are the most susceptible to wilting because they cannot absorb water. These pieces should be stored in a cool environment, such as a refrigerator, to slow moisture loss. A light misting with water just before pinning can provide a temporary boost of hydration, although excessive water can damage delicate petals.
Transportation requires careful preparation to prevent physical damage and thermal stress. Arrangements should be secured in boxes or buckets within the vehicle to prevent shifting and bruising. Before loading the flowers, the car’s interior should be pre-cooled to a moderate temperature, as a hot car causes rapid wilting even on short drives.
If a flower begins to wilt despite precautions, a technique involving brief heat exposure can revive it. For flowers with woody stems, the tip can be dipped into very hot or near-boiling water for about 30 seconds. The heat helps to clear air blockages and stimulate water flow within the stem’s vascular tissue. Immediately following the hot water treatment, the stem should be placed into a vase of cool water.