As the springtime flowers bloom, many of us want to bring those beautiful colors and fragrances indoors. But how can we cut fresh flowers without causing harm to our plants? Earth911 spoke with gardening expert Melinda Myers to find out the best ways to snip spring flowers from our gardens while keeping the plants healthy.
Editor’s note: We interviewed Melinda Myers and originally published this article in 2013.
1. Timing is key
The optimal time to cut fresh flowers is early in the morning when the plants are still full of dew and moisture. This simple step ensures healthy cuttings that last longer in a vase while also benefiting the plants.
If you plan to dry your flower cuttings, Myers recommends snipping fully bloomed flowers in the driest part of the day, like late morning or early afternoon.
2. Use the right tools
To extend the life of your fresh flowers and prevent damage to your plants, it’s important to have the proper tools on hand. Myers suggests using a sharp knife, pruners, or garden shears, along with a bucket of water.
Any sharp blade will work for cutting. Pruners and garden shears provide a clean cut and are beginner-friendly. If you prefer using a knife, that’s an option too.
“The benefit is that good, clean cut,” Myers explains. “What you don’t want to do is crush the stem.”
As you trim the flowers, place them in the bucket of water immediately to prevent wilting.
3. Know when and where
To promote regrowth and avoid harming your plants, give new plants enough time to establish before cutting flowers, Myers advises. Annuals typically take about a month to establish, while perennials may not bloom fully until the following season.
If your plant is lush and blooming, it’s safe to start snipping some flowers. Cut above a set of healthy leaves to encourage regrowth and maintain the plant’s appearance.
4. Combine gardening tasks
“Deadheading” involves trimming faded flowers to stimulate regrowth. Myers suggests a proactive approach by trimming larger flowers when they are in full bloom. This promotes growth, reduces the need for deadheading, and provides you with a fresh-cut bouquet.
5. Care for your cuttings
After bringing the flowers inside, re-cut each stem at a 45-degree angle before placing them in a vase. Cutting at an angle prevents the stem from sealing to the bottom of the vase, allowing better water absorption.
To prolong the life of fresh-cut flowers, Myers recommends the “hardening off” process. Place the flowers in warm water and then in a cool, dark place for about 12 hours. This helps the flowers acclimate to the indoor environment.
6. Don’t be afraid to experiment
While daisies and roses are popular choices, Myers encourages experimenting with different flowers and foliage from your garden. Trying new combinations can lead to surprising results and unique arrangements.
“That’s really part of the excitement is just getting in, trying different things, and finding out what works,” she shares. “The worst that can happen is they wilt early, and you don’t need to use that again.”
About Our Expert
Melinda Myers is a nationally known gardening expert with over 30 years of experience. She hosts gardening TV and radio segments and has authored numerous gardening books. Learn more about Melinda here.
Editor’s Note: Originally published on June 3, 2013, this article was updated in March 2022.
