If you're picking up a bouquet in Dhaka and want it to still look fresh seven days later, a little know-how goes a long way. This guide from Phone Probe Florist walks you through what to look for at the counter and how to care for your flowers once they're home, so your money goes further and your blooms stay beautiful longer.

Pick the Right Flowers From the Start

Some flowers are simply built to last longer than others. If longevity matters to you, ask for varieties known for good vase life rather than ones that are stunning but fleeting.

• Choose flowers with buds that are just starting to open rather than fully bloomed ones
• Check stems for firmness; soft or slimy stems mean the flower is already past its best
• Look at the leaves — they should be green and crisp, not yellowing or wilted
• Avoid bouquets with browning edges on petals, even if the overall arrangement looks nice

Inspect Before You Buy

A quick check before you pay can save you a disappointing week ahead. Gently press a petal or two — it should feel cool and slightly firm. Smell the water in the bucket if it's visible; fresh water smells clean, while old water smells sour and signals the flowers have been sitting too long.

Steps to Keep Flowers Fresh at Home

Once you've chosen well, how you treat the flowers in the first hour matters just as much as the pick itself.

1. Trim about an inch off each stem at an angle as soon as you get home
2. Use a clean vase and fill it with fresh, cool water
3. Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline
4. Add flower food if it came with your bouquet, or change the water every two days if not
5. Keep the vase away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and ripening fruit
6. Re-cut the stems every few days to help them keep drinking water

Where to Keep Them

Placement in your home affects how long flowers last just as much as the flowers themselves. A cool spot away from windows with direct afternoon sun tends to keep blooms fresher for longer, especially in Dhaka's warmer months. Avoid placing arrangements near appliances that generate heat, since warmth speeds up wilting.

A Simple Weekly Care Routine

Treat your flowers like a small daily habit rather than a one-time task. Check the water level each morning, top it up if needed, and glance at the stems for any sliminess. This small routine, done consistently, is often the real reason some bouquets last a full week while others fade by day three.