Valentine's Day Flower Vase Life Guide
When choosing flowers for Valentine's Day, knowing how long different blooms will last can help you make the best selection. Here's what you can expect from popular Valentine's Day flowers.
Longest-Lasting Flowers (2-3 weeks)
Carnations are the champions of longevity, often lasting up to three weeks with proper care. They're available in romantic reds, pinks, and whites, making them an excellent value choice that will remind your Valentine of your thoughtfulness well into March.
Alstroemeria (Peruvian lilies) are another excellent long-lasting option, typically staying fresh for two weeks or more. Their delicate, spotted petals come in various colors including pink, red, and white.
Chrysanthemums can last 2-3 weeks and offer a fuller, more textured look than traditional roses. While not always associated with romance, burgundy and pink varieties work beautifully in Valentine's arrangements.
Medium-Lasting Flowers (7-12 days)
Roses are the quintessential Valentine's flower and will generally last 7-12 days when properly cared for. Premium roses from quality florists tend to last longer than grocery store varieties. Keep them in fresh water, trim stems at an angle every few days, and remove any leaves below the water line.
Tulips bring a fresh, spring-like quality to Valentine's Day and typically last about a week to ten days. They continue growing in the vase, creating an evolving arrangement. Choose tulips with closed buds for maximum longevity.
Lilies (particularly Asiatic and Oriental varieties) last around 7-10 days and offer dramatic blooms with wonderful fragrance. Remove the pollen-heavy stamens to prevent staining and extend vase life.
Gerbera daisies provide cheerful pops of color and last about 7-10 days. Their large, vibrant blooms come in passionate reds and romantic pinks perfect for the occasion.
Shorter-Lasting Flowers (3-7 days)
Peonies, when available in mid-to-late February, are incredibly romantic but typically last only 5-7 days. Buy them as tight buds for maximum vase life.
Ranunculus have delicate, rose-like layered petals and last about 5-7 days. Their papery texture makes them particularly sensitive to water quality.
Anemones offer a unique look with dark centers and typically last 5-7 days. They're more of a specialty flower but create stunning focal points.
Tips for Extending Vase Life
Regardless of which flowers you choose, these practices will help maximize their beauty:
Start with a spotlessly clean vase washed with soap and water
Use the flower food packet provided by your florist (it really does work)
Cut stems at a 45-degree angle under running water to prevent air bubbles
Remove all foliage that would sit below the water line
Change the water every 2-3 days and recut stems each time
Keep flowers away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and ripening fruit (which releases ethylene gas)
Display arrangements in a cool room, especially at night
Best Value Choices
If you want flowers that will last well beyond Valentine's Day, consider a mixed arrangement featuring carnations, alstroemeria, and a few premium roses as focal points. This combination offers variety, romance, and longevity. Alternatively, a dozen premium roses from a quality florist, while pricier than grocery store options, will typically last significantly longer and make a more impressive statement.
The most important thing is choosing flowers that match your Valentine's preferences. Even shorter-lived blooms like peonies can be worth it if they're their favorite flower.
