The correct way to cut flower stems

 
When you receive a fresh flower delivery, you might be tempted to place it in a vase with water and let it be. However, no matter how amazing the bouquet looks, there is still some work to be done. Preparing the stems properly will ensure that your flowers will last that much longer. Here are some tips for properly trimming flower stems.
Use a sharp instrument
Whether you choose to use a knife, a pair of scissors or another cutting instrument, make sure that it is sharp. The last thing you want to do is crush the stem in the process of trimming it.
Cut at an angle
Flower stems should always be cut at an angle. This is done for a number of reasons. Firstly, if you cut the stem straight and then put it in the vase, it could very easily end up pressed against the bottom of the vase. This restricts water absorption and will cause the flower to perish prematurely. Cutting at an angle also increases the surface area of the base of the stem. This means that it can absorb more water than it could if the stem was cut straight.
Trim underwater
If you cut your stems out of water, this will expose them to air. If air finds its way into the stem, it will slow down absorption. Cutting underwater ensures that your stem continues absorbing water even while you cut it.
How much to cut?
This is a common question that so many people ask. It’s good to cut as little as necessary because you may need to trim again after a few days. Cutting one inch at the most is sufficient. If, however, you notice damage or browning at the bottom of the stem, you will need to cut until this damage is removed and the flower has a fresh and healthy stem. You can also cut away any extra leaves. If these leaves end up below the waterline in the vase, it will cause the water to become cloudy faster. The more plant material in the vase water, the faster bacterial growth occurs.
The right time
Whether you pick flowers from your garden or receive a fresh flower delivery, you should always re-cut the stems before placing them in a vase. Cutting them allows the flowers to absorb water at a faster rate which will reduce the chance of premature perishing as the result of dehydration. Remember, flowers are often shipped without water which means that this initial trim is vital if you want them to last longer.
Don’t forget that there are a number of important flower care tips that you should follow in addition to trimming the stems. You should inspect the flower stems every couple of days and, if you notice that they are slimy or if they don’t look as green as they should, a trim will do them wonders.