We asked gardeners and florists to share their top tips on how to make your sunflowers last longer in a vase
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
Sunflowers are the epitome of a happy bloom — theyre like a bright dose of sunshine that truly make a lasting impression. But what happens when these precious blooms lose their light and become droopy? Knowing how to make the most of your sunflowers in a vase is vital to ensure they stay a happy bloom for as long as possible.
They flower during the summer and into the autumn, making them a popular choice right now. You can even learn how to grow sunflowers and then, at the end of the growing season, cut them and bring them indoors and save the seeds for next season — theyre like the gift that keeps on giving!
“Sunflowers are renowned for their strength,” says Simon Barker, founder and editor of GrowYourYard.com. So what is the best way to take care of sunflowers in a vase? Heres what florists and gardening experts have to say about it.
Sunflowers are one of the most iconic flowers with their bright yellow petals and tall sturdy stems. Their cheerful faces can instantly brighten up any space. However, their beauty is fleeting – sunflowers are notorious for having a short vase life compared to many other flowers.
Fortunately, there are several tricks you can use to extend the lifespan of cut sunflowers. Follow these 10 tips to keep your bouquets looking fresh for as long as possible:
1. Harvest at the Right Stage
-
Choose sunflower heads that have fully opened and matured on the plant Avoid picking flowers that are still budding or starting to decline
-
Look for crisp unwilted petals without brown edges or spots.
-
Snip the stems early in the morning when they are fullest of water.
2. Use a Sharp Blade
-
Always cut sunflower stems with a very sharp implement like gardening shears or a knife.
-
Jagged cuts from dull tools will prevent proper water uptake, causing premature wilting.
-
Cut stems at a 45 degree angle to maximize the water-conducting surface area.
3. Immediately Submerge Stems in Water
-
After harvest, place sunflower stems directly into a bucket of water.
-
Let them fully rehydrate for several hours before arranging in a vase.
-
Soaking allows stems to uptake as much water as possible.
4. Remove Excess Foliage
-
Strip away any leaves from the lower portion of the stem that will be in water.
-
Leaves below the waterline will decay, blocking water absorption.
-
Some upper leaves can be left for aesthetics.
5. Recut Stems
-
Before moving to a vase, recut each stem by 1-2 inches while underwater.
-
This opens fresh pathways for water uptake into the stems.
-
Cut on an angle to expose more surface area.
6. Use Clean Vases
-
Arrange in thoroughly cleaned vases to prevent bacterial growth.
-
Wash vases in hot, soapy water between uses.
-
Consider filtered or distilled water for purity.
7. Add Floral Preservatives
-
Mixing in commercial floral preservatives can extend vase life.
-
Use products made for cut flowers. Follow instructions carefully.
-
Replace water and reapply every 2-3 days.
8. Display Out of Direct Sun
-
Position arrangements away from direct sunlight.
-
The heat and UV rays accelerate wilting and fading.
-
Indirect natural light or artificial light works best.
9. Maintain Proper Temperature
-
Avoid hot spots near appliances that may hasten wilting.
-
Keep away from cold drafts from doors and windows.
-
Ideal display temperature is 65°F – 75°F.
10. Change the Water Frequently
-
Replace vase water every 2-3 days minimum.
-
Stagnant water promotes bacteria blocking stems.
-
Recutting stems and adding fresh preservative each time maximizes hydration.
Proper post-harvest care is key to enjoying sunflowers the longest in arrangements. But some natural varieties have better longevity:
-
Sunburst – Classic bright yellow with very good vase life. 4-6 inch blooms.
-
Sunrich Orange – Vibrant bi-color orange petals. Stays fresh 2+ weeks.
-
Moulin Rouge – Elegant dark red petals. Holds up well indoors.
-
Chocolate Cherry – Unique chocolate-burgundy blooms. Extremely long-lasting.
-
Pro Cut Bicolor – Yellow-tipped chocolate petals. Bred for cut flowers.
Follow these tips to extend the vase life of your favorite sunflower varieties. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh bouquets for up to 2 weeks!
Add sugar and lemon to the vase (Image credit: Getty Images)
For bright flowers that bloom in the summer, sunflowers will not let you down.
Another method you can use to take care of your blooms in a vase is by mixing sugar and lemon into the vase with water. This will, in turn, help save your cheerful buds and allow them to last longer indoors.
“Add sugar and lemon into the vase to keep the sunflowers looking fresh and blooming,” suggests Jason White, the CEO of All About Gardening.
“One teaspoon of sugar to two tablespoons of lemon juice or one tablespoon of vinegar would make a good enough mixture. This will delay your cut sunflowers from wilting fast.”
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors
“This allows the flowers to take in as much water as possible, and ensures they dont sit on any stagnant water which can cause them to rot,” adds Simon Barker from GrowYourYard.com.
How to keep sunflowers standing tall and looking beautiful
FAQ
How do you keep sunflowers alive longer?
Water changes reduce bacterial growth which will help you to get the best bloom life from your bouquet. Apple Cider Vinegar & Sugar: Add a teaspoon of ACV and a teaspoon of regular sugar to the water. The vinegar kills the bacteria so your flowers will thrive.
What can I add to sunflowers to make them last longer?
Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and/or 1 tablespoon of vinegar to the water to keep your flowers looking vibrant and healthy. This helps delay sunflowers from wilting. Make sure your sunflowers are not exposed to direct sunlight, cool drafts or heat.
How to preserve sunflowers at home?
Place the stems in a vase or container filled with lukewarm water immediately after cutting them; this step helps prolong the life of your sunflowers by allowing them to hydrate correctly. To extend the lifespan of your sunflowers, it’s crucial to keep them in a cool environment.
How long will sunflowers last in a vase?
-
Timing is Key:Cut sunflowers when the outer petals are just starting to open, but the center is still firm.
-
Water Quality Matters:Use clean, filtered water and consider adding flower food or a homemade solution to maintain freshness.
-
Temperature and Humidity:Keep sunflowers in a cool, moderate environment (ideally between 18-22°C) and avoid direct sunlight or drafts.
-
Stem Care:Recut the stems at a 45-degree angle and remove any leaves that will be submerged in the water.
-
Water Changes:Change the water daily or every other day, and recut the stems to ensure proper hydration.