How long do flowers last?

Written by Hannah Kingston on September 29, 2021

You have received a bunch of flowers and your first thoughts are probably going to be “Yay I am loved!” There’s nothing better than receiving a an unexpected bunch of flowers. It’s the reminder that someone cares after all! The third or fourth thought you may have about your bouquet could be, how long will these last? Morbid but true.

So how long do flowers last?

How long do flowers last?

On average, flowers last 7-12 days before they begin to wilt. Really, it depends on the type of flowers and the conditions in which they are kept.

To ensure that your flowers last for 7-12 days, there are a number of strategies that you can take such as:

• Cutting 1-2 inches off the ends of the flowers to ensure easy absorption of water
• Cutting away dead leaves every 2-3 days
• Do not place your flowers in areas that receive direct sunlight
• Do not place your flowers near appliances that emit heat or steam

For the full guide on how to keep flowers fresh, read: 8 ways to keep flowers fresh

The greatest strategy for keeping flowers alive in general, is to choose those that tend to last the longest, whether you are sending them or are purchasing them for yourself.

• Read: Fruit flowers and how to maintain them
• Read: 18 of the best window box flowers and when to plant them
• Read: Birth month flowers & their meaning

Which flowers stay alive for the longest?

The flowers that stay alive for the longest time, with proper care and attention include:

• Gladiolus: Up to 7 days
• Roses: Up to 7 days
• Zinnia: Up to 12 days
• Sunflowers: Up to 12 days
• Chrysanthemums: Up to 14 days

• Alstroemeria: Up to 14 days
• Chrysanthemums: Up to 14 days
• Delphiniums: Up to 14 days
• Carnation: Up to 14 days
• Allium: Up to 14 days
• Lavender: Up to 14 days
• Orchids: Up to 21 days
• Lilies: Up to 21 days

• Eryngium (Sea Polly): Up to 21 days
• Freesias: Up to 21 days
• Pampas grass: Up to 30 days

Where can you get fresh flowers quickly and easily?

Below are our top recommendations for a quick and easily delivery of premium blooms.

Best online flower delivery services:

• 1800Flowers: Best flower delivery overall
• From You Flowers: Online flower experts
• BloomsyBox: Best for subscription
• Enjoy Flowers: Best for DIYers
• SendFlowers.com: Cheap flower delivery
• Lively Root: Best for plants
• Florists.com: Best for supporting local florists
• Teleflora: Best for same-day delivery services
• Plants.com: Best for succulents
• Fresh Cut Flower of the Month Club by MonthlyClubs: Best for simplicity

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