What is flower food, really?

June 21, 2023

These little packets pack a punch!

If you’ve ever received one of these little packages with your flower bunch, don’t throw it out! Flower food is like a superhero for cut flowers and can help you enjoy them to their fullest. When flowers are snipped, they lose their food source. The sugar in these packets ensures that the flowers stay lively and vibrant for a longer time.

Flower food also adjusts the pH of water. Tap water is often too alkaline for flowers, making it hard for them to drink up. Flowers like a more acidic water source, so the citric acid in flower food packets helps them absorb water and nutrients more easily. Well-fed, hydrated flowers don’t droop as quickly.

Flower food fights against bad bacteria and fungi. When flowers are cut, they’re vulnerable to bacteria that may be lurking in water. You’ve probably seen flowers that have been sitting in stagnant water for too long. The stems get slimy, water becomes cloudy, and they sometimes even smell a little funky. Flower food comes to the rescue with a touch of disinfectant that stops these germs from growing.

Beyond the Packet

Once you’ve used up your flower food packet, don’t fret. There are several simple things you can do at home that our designers swear by for long-lasting floral arrangements:

Make sure you use a clean vase for your cut flowers.
Change the water daily (we always use room temperature water because flowers like it best!)
During the daily water change, give the stems a quick rinse and trim the ends.
Display your arrangement away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Flowers don’t love life in a wind tunnel, so be sure to keep them away from fans, vents, and other sources of blowing air.

While certainly helpful, flower food is just one small way to care for your cut florals. With a little extra care and maintenance, you can extend the life of those beautiful blooms while you think about what to order next!

Give Flower Food a Try!

Now that you know a bit more about flower food, why not give it a try? Every Matlack arrangement comes fresh with a packet of flower food to help make your blooms stay beautiful for longer. Check out our selection of gorgeous florals here.