How to Care for Fresh Flowers

The Pulbrook & Gould Guide to Beautiful Blooms

Welcome to the Pulbrook & Gould Flower Care Guide. As London florists since 1956, we want you to enjoy the vibrancy and elegance of our hand-crafted bouquets for as long as possible. Follow these simple steps to keep your Pulbrook & Gould flowers looking their freshest.

Long-stemmed red roses bouquet with tightly layered petals by Pulbrook & Gould — Long-Stemmed Roses

Caring for Your Cut Flowers

Every order comes with an Aqua pack and flower food. Here is how to look after your bouquet from the moment it arrives.

Unwrapping: Gently remove the bouquet from its packaging, taking care to unwrap the paper and Aqua pack.
Tie: Please refrain from cutting the tie, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining the bouquet's shape and arrangement integrity.
Foliage: Remove any foliage below the waterline to extend the flowers' life.
Stem trimming: Trim the stems at a diagonal angle for better water absorption, using sharp scissors or a knife. For woody stems, use scissors to split the ends if necessary. Adjust the stem length to fit your chosen vase.
Water preparation: Prepare the vase by adding the flower food provided to lukewarm water, ensuring it is thoroughly dissolved.
Arranging: Carefully place the flowers in the vase, ensuring all stems are submerged in the prepared water.
Placement: Position the vase away from direct sunlight, drafts, heating vents or air conditioning units to avoid premature wilting in your London home or office.

Timeless Whites hand-tied bouquet with white roses, calla lilies and lisianthus by Pulbrook & Gould — Timeless Whites

Caring for Specific Flowers

Some of the blooms in our collections have particular needs. A little extra attention goes a long way.

Roses: Re-cut the stems and give them plenty of fresh water. If an outer petal looks bruised, remove it gently. Keep roses cool and away from heat.
Tulips: Tulips keep growing after they are cut, and will stretch and lean towards the light. Turn the vase from time to time and give them cool, fresh water.
Anemones: Anemones open wide in warm rooms and close at night. They drink a good deal, so check the water daily.
Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas are very thirsty. If the heads begin to droop, re-cut the stems and rest the whole head in a basin of cool water for a short while to revive them.
Lilies: As lilies open, gently remove the pollen-covered anthers so the pollen does not stain petals, linen or furniture.

You're Sensational hand-tied bouquet in soft pink and cream with roses and tulips by Pulbrook & Gould — You're Sensational

Extending the Beauty

Refresh the water every one to two days, and re-trim the stems each time. Watch for signs of dehydration, such as drooping heads or soft stems, and act early. With a little attention, you can prolong the joy your flowers bring to your London home or office.

Sending flowers? See our London flower delivery information, or read what our clients say in our reviews. If you have any questions about caring for your flowers, call the shop on 020 7730 0030.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the water?

Every one to two days. Re-trim the stems each time and rinse the vase.

Should I cut the tie on my bouquet?

No. The tie holds the bouquet's shape and arrangement, so please leave it in place.

Is flower food included?

Yes. Every order comes with an Aqua pack and flower food. Dissolve the flower food thoroughly in lukewarm water before arranging.

Why are my flowers drooping?

Usually they need water. Re-trim the stems at a diagonal, refresh the water and move the vase away from direct sunlight, drafts and heat.