29 March 2024 , 15:25
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Nothing cheers up a miserable day like a bunch of fresh flowers. But with prices for cut stems rocketing in the cost of living crisis, many of us see them as a luxury we can no longer afford.
Brexit, the climate crisis affecting crops and the price of fuel for deliveries have all led to an increase in the cost of the bouquets that bring us such joy, in recent years. And if they only last a week or two, it's easy to see why people might chose to spend their money on other treats.
But now one flower expert has shared a tip that could make your posies last twice as long for a fraction of the price. David Denyer, Flower Expert at Eflorist, has revealed a fuss-free hack, and how it really can improve the growth and health of your floral bouquet in water for as little as 70p.
The florist said: “Believe it or not, adding bleach to your vase of flowers is a great idea, and one that people may instantly shrug off as a myth. In order to help your flowers to last longer, simply add a ¼ teaspoon of bleach (per litre) to your vase.
“The bleach will prevent any harmful bacteria from developing, which can turn the water cloudy and a bit stinky - a clear sign of bacterial growth. By adding the bleach, it will ward off the growth of any bacteria, and keep the water looking clear and fresh, which in turn, keeps your flowers healthy.
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“However, it’s important to use only a small amount of bleach, as a large dose can be very overpowering for the flowers, and ultimately kill them - which defeats the purpose of this hack.”
With a bottle of bleach costing as little as 70p at most supermarkets, it seems his cheap and simple hack is a sure way to keep your fresh blooms lasting that little bit longer. But it's important to use the trick sparingly.
He adds: "While bleach can be effective in extending the lifespan of your flowers, it's crucial to do this only in moderation. The key here is finding the right balance to prevent bacterial growth without causing harm to the flowers - which is why ¼ teaspoon is a good starting point."
“Additionally, it's important to change the water every couple of days and trim the stems of the flowers, as you usually would, to allow them to absorb water and nutrients effectively. This normal care routine alongside the addition of bleach can significantly prolong the life of your bouquet, allowing you to enjoy the flowers for longer.”
The tip has been so successful it's gone viral with over 9.1 million views on social media. But the Eflorist expert also warns that it's not a replacement for usual flower care.
Denyer continues: "The bleach hack can absolutely be beneficial, but it doesn't mean that normal care should be ignored.
“Providing your flowers with clean water, a suitable temperature, and adequate sunlight still remains vital for their health and growth and should never be forgotten."