Skip to content

Article: Flower Care Quick Checklist

White flower arrangements in clear glass vases with candlelight at Cafe Sydney

Flower Care Quick Checklist

A short, printable-friendly routine for the day flowers arrive and the days that follow.

White cut flowers in clear glass vases on a reception table
White flowers in glass vases: a reminder to keep the vessels clean and check their water.

When the flowers arrive

  • Use a clean vase and fresh water.
  • For loose stems, remove the wrapping and trim the ends with a clean, sharp tool.
  • Remove leaves that would sit under the waterline.
  • Put freshly cut stems into water promptly.
  • Follow any instructions supplied with a finished arrangement.

Each day

  • Check the water level and top up as needed.
  • Remove fading flowers, loose petals and yellowing foliage.
  • Check whether sunlight or heating has made the display position too warm.

When refreshing the vase

  • Replace cloudy water promptly; otherwise refresh it every few days.
  • Clean and rinse the vase.
  • Re-cut loose stems where practical.
  • Use flower food only at the dilution stated on the packet.

Choose a good display position

Keep flowers away from direct sun, heaters, strong draughts and ripening fruit. A stable, cooler position helps avoid unnecessary stress on the flowers.

Ask before trying a special treatment

Different flowers have different needs. Avoid applying hot-water, flame, refrigeration or homemade-additive treatments to an unfamiliar mixed bouquet. Contact our studio for advice about a particular stem or arrangement.

Keep the household in mind

Prevent children and pets from drinking vase water or chewing flowers and foliage. If the home has pets, tell us when ordering so the flower and foliage selection can be discussed.

Would you like a printable version?

Keep the original care sheet handy for reference.

Download the original printable PDF

Need advice about your flowers or plant? Contact our studio, or explore our care guide library.

Photography: Charles McKean for Susan Avery.

Read more

A pink flowering cyclamen plant
Care PDF review

Cyclamen Care: Light, Watering and Summer Dormancy

Care for a florist’s cyclamen with cool conditions, gentle light and careful watering, and understand its summer resting period.

Read more
A white phalaenopsis orchid plant
Care PDF review

Flowers and Pet Safety: What to Check Before Bringing Flowers Home

Important flower and plant safety considerations for homes with cats and dogs, including the urgent risk lilies pose to cats.

Read more