Why is it that some of the most beloved flowers don’t last very long? Is that why we love them? Their ethereal beauty? Dahlias definitely fit into this category!
Dahlias are absolutely gorgeous flowers that can instantly brighten up any space. With their lively colors and unique shapes it’s no wonder they are such a popular choice for bouquets centerpieces, and decor.
However, like all cut flowers, proper care is required to extend the vase life of cut dahlias. Follow these tips and you’ll be able to enjoy their beauty for days longer
Harvest at the Right Time
When harvesting dahlias for arrangements, always cut them early in the morning or late in the evening. Avoid the middle of the day when it is hottest. The sugars in the plants are highest in the morning, so this is an optimal time. Cutting in high heat stresses the blooms.
Use Clean, Sharp Tools
Make sure your pruning shears or knife are clean and sharp. Dull tools will crush the stems instead of making a clean cut, which impedes water uptake. Rubbing alcohol or floral disinfectant can be used to sterilize your cutting tools.
Use Clean Containers
The container you first place cut dahlias in should be thoroughly clean. Bacteria is the number one killer of vase life. A dirty bucket introduces bacteria right away. Clean your containers with soap and hot water before each use.
Cut Stems at an Angle
Cut dahlia stems at a 45 degree angle. This allows more surface area for the stem to absorb water.
Remove Excess Foliage
Remove all leaves that will fall below the water line in your vase. Leaves underwater promote bacterial growth.
Use a Floral Preservative
Using a commercial floral preservative like Chrysal or Floralife is highly recommended. These contain sugars to feed the blooms as well as antibacterials. Follow the directions on the product.
Hydrate Immediately After Cutting
After cutting, place dahlias immediately in a bucket of water with floral preservative. Let them hydrate for at least 2 hours before arranging. If possible, hydrate overnight.
Recut Stems Before Arranging
After initial hydrating, cut dahlia stems again and place in fresh water with floral preservative. This second cut removes any seal that formed on the ends underwater.
Remove Any Damaged Petals
Carefully inspect each bloom and snip off any bruised, discolored or damaged petals with sharp floral scissors. This prevents decay from spreading.
Arrange in a Clean Vase
When ready to arrange, place dahlias in a thoroughly cleaned vase with fresh water and a new dose of floral preservative.
Avoid Crowding
Do not overcrowd dahlias in an arrangement. Each stem needs ample water uptake. Re-cut stems if necessary to fit your vase without cramming.
Display Out of Direct Sunlight
Keep your dahlia arrangement in a cool spot out of direct sunlight. Heat and sun exposure will shorten vase life.
Change the Water Every 2 Days
Recut the stems and replace the water and floral preservative every 2-3 days. Bacteria multiply over time, so refreshing the water helps combat this.
Recut Stems Underwater
When you change the water, recut the stems underwater about 1 inch from the bottom. This prevents air bubbles from blocking the water uptake vessels.
Remove Spent Blooms
Deadhead spent blooms as soon as they show signs of wilting. Pull or cut off the dying bloom just above a set of leaves.
Monitor Water Level
Check the water level every day and top off as needed. Evaporation can leave stems exposed, so refill if the level drops.
Use Floral Tubes If Necessary
For dahlias with a hollow stem, use a floral tube to prevent air blockage. Cut the stem at an angle, insert the tube, and submerge stem in water.
Consider a Floral Preservative Powder
For maximum vase life, disolve a floral preservative powder in the water instead of using the liquid formulations. The powder provides more concentrated nutrition.
Enjoy Your Dahlias!
Follow these care tips and change the water routinely, and you should be able to enjoy your cut dahlias for 5-7 days or even longer. Their big, bright blooms will add stunning beauty to your home decor.
Some additional tips for special cases:
For Commercial Growers
- Harvest in the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower
- Use a holding solution like Chrysal AVB in your harvesting bucket
- Invest in a flower cooler to properly hydrate and store blooms
- Condition blooms in the cooler for at least 12-16 hours before sale
- Recut stems when removing from cooler
For Floral Designers
- If possible, store dahlias in a flower cooler until needed
- Request freshly cut blooms from your grower 1-2 days before the event
- Upon delivery, recut stems and place in water with floral preservative
- Use ball or smaller dahlia varieties for longer-lasting arrangements
- Place larger dahlia stems on-site to prevent damage to delicate petals
Caring for cut dahlias properly requires some specific techniques like hydrating in floral preservative immediately after cutting and recutting stems every couple days. But the extra effort is well worth it to extend the vase life of these stunning blooms. Follow these tips and change the water consistently to maximize the days you can enjoy their beauty.
For the Commercial Flower Grower:
For the Home Gardener:
5 dahlia growing tips in 5 minutes
FAQ
How long will dahlias last once cut?
This year, I learned a way to help cut dahlias last longer, about four to six days. It’s simple, and it works. Start by picking early in the day, a good practice for any cut flower. In the cool morning, blooms are less stressed by the heat of the day.