Why Does Sugar Prolong the Life of Flowers?

When flowers are cut, they no longer have access to food or water. Placing cut flowers in a vase of water helps keep them hydrated. Adding sugar to the vase water prolongs the life of the flowers because it offers them an energy source.

Function

After flowers are cut, they are no longer a part of a growing plant, which keeps flowers alive through the water and nutrients it absorbs from the soil. Without the help of water, sugar, and other preservatives, flowers quickly die.,

Types

There are many formulas for preserving cut flowers. Some consist of only water and sugar; other suggest adding small amounts of bleach, vinegar, lemon juice, aspirin, baking soda or even a copper penny to your vase water.

Considerations

Some formulas for preserving cut flowers recommend using a clear soda, such as a lemon-lime soda, in place of sugar. This is because the sugar in sodas is already liquid and may be easier for flowers to absorb.

Additional Tips

Cut flower stems on an angle to allow the stems to absorb more water. Change the water in your flower vases every two days.

Warning

Don't mix daffodils with other flowers in the same vase. Daffodils can be toxic to other flowers.

References

• Expert Tips on Fresh Cut Flowers
• Preserving Cut Flowers
• Fresh Tips for Cut Flowers

Resources

• National Gardening Association: Preserving Cut Flowers
• Gardening Tip: Preserving Cut Flowers:
• Cut Flower Tips