The quick answer: Most cut flowers last 3 to 7 days. Hardy varieties like carnations, alstroemeria, mums and orchids can go a week or longer. Vase life depends on the flower type, how fresh it was when cut, and how you care for it at home.
What affects how long flowers last?
Flowers are living things, so a lot depends on their journey from grower to vase:
- The flower type. Some are naturally longer-lasting than others (see the chart below).
- Growing conditions. Weather and season affect quality at the source.
- Shipping and handling. Bunches buys only from reputable growers and brokers, and we condition every flower as soon as it arrives in store.
- Care at home. This is the part you control, and it makes a big difference.
Vase life chart: how long popular flowers last
| Vase life | Flowers |
|---|---|
| 3–5 days | Tulip, iris, rose, daffodil, freesia, lisianthus, anemone, gladiolus, delphinium, calla lily |
| 4–6 days | Asiatic & Oriental lily, bird of paradise, ginger, gerbera, mini carnation, aster, agapanthus, spray rose, sunflower, larkspur, dendrobium orchid, stock |
| 7+ days | Daisies & mums, carnation, statice, cymbidium orchid, alstroemeria, caspia, liatris, protea |
Want flowers that last? Ask for a bouquet built around the 7+ day varieties.
How to make your flowers last longer
For a loose bouquet:
- Re-cut the stems at an angle with a sharp knife.
- Put them in a clean vase with lukewarm water and the flower food packet.
- Display them somewhere cool, away from sun, heat vents and drafts.
For an arrangement in a container:
- Remove the wrapping right away.
- Top up the container with water, and check it daily.
- Keep it somewhere cool and draft-free.
For the full step-by-step, see How to Make Cut Flowers Last Longer.
Why do some flowers in my bouquet fade before others?
Every flower opens and ages at its own pace, so a mixed bouquet will change over time. Pull out the blooms as they finish. Removing spent flowers gives smaller buds room to open, and the rest of the bouquet stays fresher and livelier for longer.
FAQ
What cut flowers last the longest?
Carnations, chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, cymbidium orchids, statice and protea. These often last a week or more.
How long do roses last in a vase?
Usually 3–5 days, and often longer with fresh water, re-cut stems and a cool spot.
Why did my flowers die so fast?
The usual causes are an empty vase, dirty water, a warm or sunny spot, or a ripening fruit bowl nearby.
Can I make flowers last longer without flower food?
Yes. Change the water every 2 days, re-cut the stems and keep the vase cool. See our care guide for a homemade flower food recipe.
Questions? Visit us or give us a call.
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