Last Updated on January 26, 2023
Want your fresh-cut irises to last longer? Here are 7 simple steps to follow that will increase their vase life.
Dutch Iris is the most famous iris variety sold by florists. We sell a lot of Dutch iris in our shop, especially during the spring season.
Dutch irises are bulb flowers that are available year-round but are at their peak in January through May.
Their beautiful color and unique flower shape make them a favorite among our customers. Most people are familiar with the striking dark blue iris, but these beautiful flowers are also available in light blue, yellow, white, purple, and bronze colors.
Here’s How To Keep Cut Irises Alive Longer
For maximum vase life, you should purchase irises in the bud stage, with just the tips showing color. Whether you receive them as a gift or buy them to enjoy yourself, cut irises will arrive either arranged, boxed, or wrapped.
If your irises do not arrive in water, here are the steps you should follow.
Seven Steps You Should Immediately Follow
- Upon arrival, remove any damaged foliage or foliage that will be underwater to prevent bacterial growth.
- While holding the flower stems underwater in a sink or under running water, cut about one inch off each stem with a sharp knife (not a serrated knife) or shears at a 45-degree angle. DO NOT let the newly cut end dry off before transferring it back to your arrangement or another vase with water.
- Warm water or cold water? Lukewarm water (about 100 degrees F), to which you should add a good flower preservative, is the best way to arrange fresh-cut iris. A commercial flower preservative, used as recommended, will provide additional days of vase life.
Although a homemade flower preservative would work in a pinch, I don’t recommend it for any fresh flowers. Also, avoid using water from a water softener.
- Leave irises in a cool dark room or refrigerator to ‘condition’ for 2 or 3 hours after processing before working with them.
- If your irises arrive boxed or wrapped, be careful when unpacking them! DO NOT bump the tips of the iris flowers to avoid damaging the bloom.
- Temperature is key to the lifespan of all flowers, especially irises. Display your fresh-cut irises in a cool area out of direct sunlight and drafts to extend their lifespan.
- Iris are thirsty flowers. It is important to check to see that the vase is full and add flower food often. If arranged in floral foam, ensure the foam is completely saturated, and check that the container is filled with fresh water daily.
One More Quick Tip
This short video clip shows you how to deal with cut irises that won’t open, which is a common question.
Thanks for taking the time to check out the video!
I hope you picked up a few tips for handling and caring for cut iris.
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