The Secret to a Long-Lasting Vase: Bloom Like a Pro - Adele Rae Florists Burnaby

The Secret to a Long-Lasting Vase: Bloom Like a Pro

At Adele Rae Florist, we believe that the joy of receiving flowers shouldn't be a fleeting moment. While every flower has its own unique charm, not all blooms are created equal when it comes to staying power. If you are the type of person who wants to enjoy your floral arrangement for a week or more, choosing the right stems is half the battle.

Whether you're treating yourself or sending a floral gift to a loved one, here is our expert guide on which flowers to embrace and which ones to skip if longevity is your top priority.

The Marathon Runners: Flowers That Last

If you want a bouquet that stands the test of time, these are the reliable beauties we recommend. With proper care—like trimming the stems and changing the water every two days—these varieties can often look fresh for 10 to 14 days.

• Chrysanthemums (Mums): The undisputed champions of longevity. Whether they are the lush "disbud" variety or the cheerful "button" mums, these hardy flowers can easily last two to three weeks in a vase.
• Carnations: Don’t underestimate the humble carnation! Modern varieties come in stunning "antique" dusty pinks and deep burgundies. They are incredibly resilient and maintain their ruffled shape long after other flowers have bowed out.
• Alstroemeria (Lily of the Incas): Each stem features multiple miniature lily-like blooms. They open gradually, meaning as one bloom fades, another is ready to take its place. They are also fantastic for those with sensitivities as they are scent-free.
• Orchids (Cymbidium and Phalaenopsis): While they feel exotic and delicate, orchids are surprisingly tough. A stem of Cymbidium orchids can look pristine for nearly a month if kept in a cool spot.
• Lilies: Stargazers and Oriental lilies are magnificent. If you remove the pollen-bearing anthers as they open, you’ll prevent staining and help the flower focus its energy on the petals, extending its life significantly.

The "Tricky" Flowers: Proceed With Caution

Some flowers are "divas." They are breathtakingly beautiful, but they require high maintenance or simply have a shorter biological clock.

• The Hydrangea Warning:  At Adele Rae, we often suggest avoiding hydrangeas if longevity is your primary goal. While they are lush and romantic, their name comes from the Greek word Hydra (water)—and for a reason. They are incredibly thirsty. If they lose their "water seal" for even an hour, they can wilt beyond repair. They are tricky, temperamental, and often the first to go in a mixed arrangement.

• Tulips: They are spring favourites, but they continue to grow in the vase, often stretching and bending toward the light until they eventually flop.
• Garden Roses/Peonies: Unlike standard long-stem roses, garden roses (like Peonies) have a very high petal count and open very quickly. They are meant for "the moment," usually lasting only 3 to 5 days.
• Sweet Peas: Exquisite fragrance, but very delicate. Their thin stems and soft petals mean they usually only offer a few days of perfection.

Pro-Tip: It’s All About the Water

No matter which flower you choose, the secret to longevity is cleanliness. Bacteria are the enemy of flowers. Always use a sparkling clean vase, use the flower food provided, and ensure no leaves are submerged below the water line, as they will rot and cloud the water.

Visit Us in Burnaby

Want to see these long-lasting beauties in person? Come say hi to our design team! You can find us at our Burnaby flower shop located at 4714 Hastings St. We are easy to find—right next to the new BMO Bank and No Frills store.

We love helping our neighbours choose the perfect stems that fit their lifestyle and home. If you can’t make it in, don't worry! We offer same-day delivery for bouquets and arrangements to Burnaby, Vancouver, and Coquitlam for all orders placed before 1 pm.

Let’s fill your home with flowers that last!