Spring is in the air….and we were spoiled last week here on the CT shoreline with our 75 degree weather. I even debated sneaking in a beach day at one point. Sadly we are back to our typical windy 50 degree weather March weather, but that’s okay…the weather will only get warmer from here!

I love this time of year because the grocery stores start blooming with fresh-cut flowers. Trader Joe’s is my favorite flower spot because they have inexpensive prices on my favorite spring blooms. Today I picked up my second favorite – white tulips – to bring a little spring to our home (white hydrangeas being my first!).

The one downside of grocery store blooms is I notice they tend to die a lot quicker than fresh-cut flowers from the garden. I’m sure there are many reasons for this (ie: cut too early, etc.) but I was convinced there had to be a way to help my new tulips last a little longer.  After a little internet research, I’ve compiled a list of tips to get your store-bought flowers staying fresh.

1. Prepare the stems. This helps the flowers take up water quickly. To do this, use a sharp knife to cut the stems at a 45 degree angle to allow the most surface area on the stem base. Cutting them under water helps prevent air from seeping into the stem.

Splitting the stems with a knife about a half-inch from the base will also help the stems to soak up water.  For tulips, you can also pierce the stem in intervals with a knife or needle to help prevent an airlock from forming, which ultimately prevents water from getting to the flower.

2. Wrap the stems in wet newspaper. To prevent the stems from flopping over, you can wrap each individually in wet newspaper and letting them soak for about 2 hours in 2-3 inches of water. Then transfer them to your vase of choice.

3. Add pennies to the bottom of the vase. The copper in pennies works as a fungicide! Who would’ve thought? You can also add an aspirin to make the water acidic.

4. Add bleach. Adding a 1/4 tsp. of bleach per 1 quart of water prevents mold from growing inside of the vase. It also helps the tulips from dying prematurely.

5. Add a teaspoonful of sugar. Not only does it “help the medicine go down,” but it also helps renew your flowers.

Simple enough, and things you can find in your home! These tips will work with fresh-cut flowers as well.  I just love the simplicity of tulips, especially white, in a white pitcher….they bring a much-needed smile to my face. 🙂

What are your favorite spring flowers? How do you use them to bring a little spring to your home?

flowers tulips