How to Make Your Zinnia Arrangements Last Longer
Some of my favorite tips and tricks to get my zinnia arrangements to last longer.
I always like to go out in the early morning to clip zinnias for my arrangements. Your zinnias will have a much better start if they are not cut during the heat of the day, or after a long hot day in the sun. During the cool summer nights, flowers and plants have a chance to rehydrate. As the day goes on and temperatures rise, the plant loses hydration. The better hydrated your flowers begin with, the longer they will last!
Where and how should I cut my zinnias?
Using a sharp pair of scissors or pruners, cut the stem with as much length as possible. This way you can adjust the height of the stem to your vase for a perfect fit. Snip off all leaves on the lower part of the stem that would be low enough to be submerged in water in your arrangement. If leaves are left on and submerged under water, they will decay and shorten the vase-life of your flowers.
3. As you are outside cutting your zinnias, place the cut flowers into hot water to immediately provide hydration to the stem. I fill a large container with very hot water from the sink.
4. Once inside, if your zinnias need cut down more to fit your vase, recut the ends at an angle under water.
5. Dip the ends of your zinnia stems into boiling water for 10-15 seconds. This process scalds the end of the stem, preventing it from losing its nutrient rich sap.
6. Placing your zinnias back into a container filled with lukewarm water, let them rest for several hours, or overnight.
7. Your zinnias are now ready to arrange! To get the longest life out of your arrangement, be sure to change the water every 2-3 days.
