For ADA accessible experience, please visit https://www.bloomnation.com/florist/little-peony-florist/?nav=premium-accessibility

5 Common Mistakes People Make with Fresh Flowers

Fresh flowers bring instant beauty and joy to any space — but caring for them the right way is key to keeping them vibrant. At Little Peony Florist, your trusted Orange County florist, we see a few common mistakes that shorten the life of even the freshest blooms. Here’s how to avoid them so your flowers stay stunning for days longer.


1. Forgetting to Trim the Stems

The mistake: Placing flowers directly into a vase without cutting the stems.
Why it matters: Stems seal at the ends after being cut, making it harder for flowers to absorb water.
The fix: Use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to trim 1–2 inches at a 45-degree angle before arranging your flowers, and recut every two to three days.


2. Using Dirty Vases

The mistake: Reusing a vase without thoroughly cleaning it.
Why it matters: Bacteria in old water can quickly cause stems to decay.
The fix: Wash your vase with warm, soapy water before each use and rinse well to remove any residue.


3. Ignoring the Water Quality

The mistake: Filling the vase with tap water and leaving it unchanged for days.
Why it matters: Bacteria grow quickly in stagnant water, which can shorten the life of your flowers.
The fix: Change the water every 1–2 days and add the flower food packet provided by your florist for optimal freshness.


4. Placing Flowers in the Wrong Spot

The mistake: Displaying arrangements in direct sunlight, near heaters, or by drafts.
Why it matters: Extreme temperatures cause flowers to wilt prematurely.
The fix: Keep flowers in a cool, shaded area away from heat sources, air vents, or direct sunlight.


5. Overcrowding the Arrangement

The mistake: Stuffing too many stems into one vase.
Why it matters: Flowers need breathing room for air circulation and to absorb water evenly.
The fix: Use a vase that fits your bouquet comfortably or split a large bouquet into multiple vases for a balanced, airy look.


Keep Your Flowers Fresh with Little Peony Florist

Whether you’re ordering a romantic bouquet in Irvine, a cheerful gift in Newport Beach, or a custom arrangement anywhere in Orange County, Little Peony Florist delivers only the freshest blooms. Follow these simple tips to enjoy your flowers longer — and when in doubt, ask your local florist for care instructions.


Order Fresh Flowers Today

Ready to brighten someone’s day? Contact Little Peony Florist for same-day flower delivery across Orange County, and keep your blooms looking beautiful well beyond the first day.