Flower FAQ: Answers to the Most Common Floral Questions

Flowers have a magical way of brightening up any room or occasion—but they also come with plenty of questions. Whether you’re a bouquet enthusiast or just received flowers for the first time, you’ve probably wondered about how to care for them, what different blooms mean, or even why some flowers seem to fall asleep at night.

Today, we’re answering some of the most common (and fun!) flower questions we get at River Oaks Plant House. Consider this your go-to floral cheat sheet!

How long do flowers last?

A typical flower question that gets asked often is how long do flowers last? It depends on the type of flower and how well you care for them, but most fresh-cut flowers last between 5 and 10 days. Some, like chrysanthemums and alstroemeria, can last up to two weeks with proper care. Roses and lilies tend to live about a week, while more delicate blooms like tulips may start fading after 4–5 days.

Tips to extend vase life:

• Change the water daily
• Trim the stems at a 45-degree angle every couple of days
• Keep them away from direct sunlight, heat, and fruit (yes, fruit emits ethylene gas!)

Why do some flowers close at night?

Another great flower question—and no, your flowers aren’t just being dramatic.

Some flowers close their petals at night in a process called nyctinasty. It’s nature’s way of protecting delicate parts (like pollen) from moisture and cool temperatures during the evening. You’ll see this in flowers like tulips, daisies, and morning glories. They typically open back up once the sun rises—kind of like hitting snooze and stretching first thing in the morning.

Can I refrigerate my bouquet?

Technically, yes—but only with some caveats!

Refrigeration can help slow the aging process of your flowers, especially if you need them to last until an event. But make sure:

• The temperature is between 34–36°F
• There are no fruits or vegetables in the fridge (again, that pesky ethylene gas!)
• The bouquet is in water and not touching the fridge walls or back

It’s best only to refrigerate them for a few hours at a time—like overnight—and then display them in a cool indoor space the rest of the day.

Bonus Floral Question: What’s the #1 mistake people make with flowers?

Leaving the original plastic wrap on the bouquet when putting it in a vase! Your flowers need room to breathe and absorb water freely. Always remove any packaging, trim the stems, and place them in fresh water for the best results.

Let Your Flower Curiosity Bloom

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a special event, or just picking up flowers to brighten your space, knowing a little more about how blooms behave can make your floral experience even more meaningful (and longer-lasting!).

Looking for the perfect arrangement—or still have flower questions of your own? The experts at River Oaks Plant House are always here to help. From seasonal blooms to timeless classics, we create one-of-a-kind floral designs for every occasion, big or small.

Visit us today and let your love for flowers blossom!