Prepare a clean vase
Wash your vase thoroughly before use. Fill it with fresh, cool-to-room-temperature water and add flower food if supplied, following the packet instructions.
THE KOSMOS GUIDE
Flower Care
A little everyday care makes all the difference. Discover simple ways to enjoy your flowers at their best, from the first unwrapping to the final bloom.
DISCOVER THE GUIDE
START WITH THE BASICS
Beautiful flowers deserve thoughtful care.
Every stem is unique. These practical steps are suitable for most fresh cut-flower bouquets. If your arrangement comes with specific care instructions, follow those first.
Trim the stems
Using clean, sharp scissors or secateurs, trim approximately 1–2 cm from the ends of suitable cut-flower stems at an angle before placing them in water.
Remove submerged leaves
Gently remove foliage that would sit below the waterline. This helps keep the water cleaner and reduces bacterial build-up.
Refresh the water
Check the water level daily and top up as needed. Replace the water and rinse the vase every one to two days, or sooner if it becomes cloudy.
Find the right spot
Display your flowers in a cool area away from direct sunlight, radiators, draughts and ripening fruit. Avoid placing them close to appliances that produce heat.
Give them a little attention
Remove spent blooms and damaged foliage as they appear. Some flowers naturally open or fade sooner than others, so a little maintenance keeps the rest looking lovely.
GOOD TO KNOW
Different arrangements, different care.
Hand-tied bouquets
Remove wrapping that prevents stems from reaching the water, then place your bouquet in a suitable clean vase. Retain any ties that help maintain the arrangement's shape if appropriate.
Flower bags & boxed designs
Some designs contain a water source or floral foam. Keep them upright and check any supplied care instructions before adding water or removing the arrangement from its container.
Event & display flowers
Keep installations and table arrangements away from excessive heat and direct sun where possible. For larger or specialist displays, follow the care guidance provided for your particular design.
A FEW EXTRA TIPS
Little things to remember
Flower food: Use only as directed. More is not necessarily better.
Delicate petals: Avoid unnecessary handling and do not spray all flower varieties with water, as some petals can mark.
Pets and children: Some flowers and foliage can be harmful if eaten. Keep arrangements out of reach and check individual plant safety, particularly if you have cats.
Natural lifespan: Freshness varies with the flower variety, season and environment. No single vase-life estimate applies to every bouquet.
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
Have a question about your flowers?
If you need advice about a particular arrangement or have a concern about an order, get in touch with our team.
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