How Long Can Cut Flowers Last Without Being in Water? We Share the Answer
The Spruce / Alyson Brown
Flowers should only go without water for a few hours, while specifics depend on the type of flower and how they were treated right after cutting. Wilting begins immediately after cutting when air enters the flower, preventing it from taking in water.
Fresh-cut flowers are always a bright spot in your home or office, but how quickly they are placed in water will make a big difference in how long they last.
To keep cut flowers lasting as long as possible, learn how long cut flowers can go without being in water.
How Long Can Cut Flowers Last
Most cut flowers can't stay fresh without water longer than a couple of hours. There are a few hardier varieties like roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums that can withstand 24 hours without water.
Depriving cut flowers of any variety of water for extended periods after cutting will dramatically shorten how long they will last when placed back in water.
5 Things That Affect Cut Flowers' Lifespan
Temperature and Humidity
With or without water, temperature is the biggest factor in how long a cut flower lasts. The optimum temperature for longevity is around 35 to 37 degrees F. (similar to the temperature in your refrigerator).
Since most of us can't match that temperature, aim for as cool and damp as you possibly can and place the flowers away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or drafts. One of the worst spots for cut flowers is being left in a hot car.
Flower Type
Some flowers and greenery are more sturdy than others and will last longer without water. Woody or heavier stems are an indication that the flower will last longer than those with a soft, hollow stem that can't absorb as much water.
This chart can help you make selections for cut flowers when you know they will be out of water for several hours at room temperature.
Type of Flower | Lasting Time Without Being in Water |
Carnations | 12 hours |
Lilies including Alstroemeria | 6-8 hours |
Sunflowers | 6-8 hours |
Roses | 4-6 hours |
Chrysanthemums | 4-6 hours |
Gerbera Daisies | 4-6 hours |
Daffodils | 4-6 hours |
Orchids | 3-5 hours |
Tulips | 2-3 hours |
Gladiolus | 2-3 hours |
Cutting Technique
Unless you are cutting the flowers yourself from the garden, you won't know how they were prepared after harvesting. If you have purchased cut flowers and plan to transport them without water, use clean, sharp garden snips to make a fresh, angled cut at the bottom of the stem.
Place the flowers in water and allow them to hydrate for a few hours. The fresh cut allows the stem to absorb water more efficiently and will keep the cut flowers fresher during transport.
Cleanliness
Cleanliness matters in keeping cut flowers fresh. Always use fresh cool water and a clean vase or container to prevent bacterial growth.
Care
Remove excess foliage that steals water from the blooms and can cause bacterial growth below the water line while you are hydrating the flowers. Use a flower preservative, a mixture of microorganisms and respiratory inhibitors, as an energy source for the flowers.
How to Maintain Fresh Flowers Without Water
Follow these tips to help maintain fresh flowers without water:
If possible, trim the stems with fresh cuts and place the flowers in water and flower preservatives for several hours before transporting.
Keep the flowers as cool as possible away from direct sunlight and heating vents.
Dampen a cloth or several layers of paper towels and secure it around the bottom of the flower stems with a rubber band.
Choose sturdy varieties of flowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do flowers last without water?
Most flowers can withstand a couple of hours without water before they wilt. However, some flowers with sturdy stems can last up to 8 hours without water before wilting is noticeable.
Can you leave flowers out of water for 2 hours?
While the lack of water isn't ideal for any cut flower, most can last without water for two hours. To help maintain moisture levels, wet a cloth or paper towel and wrap it around the bottom of the stems. Secure the cloth with a rubber band and slip it inside a plastic bag during transport.
Will flowers be okay in the car for a few hours?
During months of high temperatures, cut flowers won't last in a car for more than 30 minutes without beginning to wilt. During cooler temperatures, they may survive for a few hours. Always place them in a spot in the car out of direct sunlight.
Read the original article on The Spruce.
