How to Make Your Flowers Last Longer: Care Tips from a Local Florist

So, you’ve just received a stunning creation from Gentle Doves Flower Shop (ร้านดอกไม้สด นกพิราบ ละมุนละไม)! Whether it’s a grand wrapped bouquet, an elegant vase arrangement, or a gorgeous flower box, we know you want to keep those vibrant blooms looking fresh for as long as possible.

Because our designs are carefully crafted as full arrangements rather than loose stems, caring for them is a little different than your average supermarket bundle. Here is your ultimate guide to extending the life of your Gentle Doves flowers!

 

1. How to Care for Wrapped Bouquets

Our signature bouquets feature a beautiful Thai-Korean inspired wrapping style. Inside the paper, the flower stems are wrapped in cotton and tucked into a hidden water bag. This means your flowers can stay perfectly hydrated and beautiful for 2 to 3 days without you having to do a thing!

When you are ready to refresh them, you have two practical options depending on whether you want to keep the wrapping intact:

• Option A: Keep the Beautiful Design (Hydrate in the Wrap)
  If you love our wrapping design and want to display it as-is, you can easily top up the water. Look right under the main flower blooms/buds and gently peek between the wrapping paper layers. You will see the mouth of the plastic water bag surfacing there. Carefully pour a small amount of fresh, cool water directly into it.

• Option B: Maximize Longevity (Transfer to a Vase)
  If you want your flowers to last as long as possible and don't mind parting with the paper, carefully untie and remove the wrapping. Snip the stems at a 45-degree angle, remove any lower leaves that might sit below the waterline, and place the flowers into a clean vase filled with fresh, cool water.

2. For Vase Arrangements (Without Floral Foam)

If your order arrived already arranged in a clean glass vase, maintenance is incredibly easy!

• Change the Water: Gently pour out the old water every 2 to 3 days and replace it with fresh, cool water.
• Trim the Stems: Every time you change the water, trim the flower stems slightly. This allows the flowers to absorb water and hydrate easily.
• Keep it Clean: Fresh water prevents bacterial growth that can clog the stems and shorten your flowers' lifespan. It takes less than a minute but makes a massive difference.

3. For Flower Boxes & Oasis Floral Foam Arrangements

For arrangements set inside our signature flower boxes or structured vases using floral foam (Oasis), the flowers draw moisture directly from the foam block.

• Check the Moisture: Touch the foam every day. If it feels slightly dry, it’s time for a top-up.
• Water Gently: Carefully pour a small amount of water directly onto the foam, aiming between the stems. Be mindful not to overwater or get the outer paper box wet.

Universal Pro-Tips for All Arrangements

• Find the Perfect Spot: Keep your flowers away from direct sunlight, harsh heating vents, air conditioners blowing directly on them, and even ripening fruit! Ripening fruit releases ethylene gas, which speeds up the wilting process. Choose a cool spot with indirect light instead.
• Use Flower Food: If your arrangement came with a packet of flower food, use it! It contains the perfect blend of nutrients and antibacterial agents to keep the water clean.
• Mist and Refresh: Give your petals a gentle mist with cool water every couple of days. This mimics natural morning dew and keeps the blossoms looking plump and vibrant.

With just a little bit of love, your stunning arrangement from Gentle Doves Flower Shop will bring beauty and joy to your space for days to come!