The cooler part of the day is better. If it is hot and uncomfortable for you, you can bet the flowers are thinking the same thing. Picking them in the heat means they won’t last long. Mornings at the orchard are best
IMPORTANT: Fill your vase with water and place stems in the water immediately after cutting them
Pick flowers that haven’t fully opened as they will last longer
Don’t pick flowers with floppy stems
For taller varieties like zinnias, cosmos and sunflowers, cut stems the length of your forearm. You can trim them shorter later, if needed
Remove the leaves from the stems as you pick
Replace water in your vase every 2-3 days.
Re-cut stems on a diagonal after a few days and replace in water
Pro Tips: Add a splash of 7-Up to the water to help the flowers last longer, And, if you really want to go pro . . . a few days after building your bouquet, fill your sink with water and add the stems to the sink. Re-trim the stems “underwater” with scissors and return them to vase/mason jar while stems are still in the water. The thirsty flowers will thank you for this bit of TLC. Hydration is key 🙂