Fresh flowers help brighten up the mood in any room, but what can we do to make them last longer?
According to Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, adding a dash of vodka can help you get the best out of your blooms as it may help to halt ethylene production – the gas that makes flowers wilt. Pouring yourself a tipple at the end of the week? Don't forget to give your bouquet a splash, too.
"Adding a spoon of vodka to your plant water actually helps with the plant's overall health," Chris tells HuffPost UK. "A lot of people will probably find this surprising, but the vodka acts as an antibacterial agent, meaning that it kills bacteria on the stems and promotes growth and a healthy plant overall."
If you don't have any vodka to hand, Chris recommends keeping your blooms away from bright sunlight (they need to stay cool) and making sure they are not placed close to fruit bowls as bananas and apples can make flowers age quicker.
"Another thing to do is to keep your flowers cool," Chris adds. "Of course they need sunlight, but sometimes people take this too far, avoid keeping flowers in places like the conservatory or kitchen where there may be heat from cooking and try picking a cooler location.
"It's also advised that we keep flowers away from fruit! This is because fruits like apples and bananas give off ethylene, which essentially makes flowers age quicker."
You'll have a beautiful long-lasting bunch in no time...
Emma Bridgewater's gorgeous new spring 2024 range is here
Daffodils are one of the most welcoming signs of spring, bringing bright swathes of colour to our gardens and parks. As we prepare our homes for the new season, we think this beautiful Wild Daffodils 10 1/2 inch plate would make a wonderful addition to any kitchen cupboard.
Give your morning cuppa a lift with Emma Bridgewater's new flowers espresso mug. Inspired by Klimt's crazy rich mix of abundant multi-coloured flowers, give it to the person who holds your heart most dear.
As the first daisies emerge in spring, serve up a slab of your favourite cake on this beautiful plate featuring the pretty flower.
No serving of hot cross buns is complete without these sweet napkins from Emma Bridgewater.
Wildflower Walks Chilly's 500Ml Insulated Bottle
Hydration is made simple and convenient with this insulated bottle, in collaboration with Chilly's. Made from high-grade stainless steel, it features a pretty wildflower print.
Love is in the air, and there's no better way to celebrate with Emma Bridgewater's new drops. We love this set of two roses mugs, featuring a stunning print for 2024.
Whether serving dinner or drinks to guests, make sure you do so with Emma Bridgewater's floral round tray.
Black toast fans will adore these new additions for spring. The Fish and Chips plate is ideal for Friday night takeaways, while the 'Will You Marry Me' mug is perfect for Valentine's Day. Make sure not to miss out.
Don't put the kettle on without picking up this Green Toast 1/2 pint mug, featuring the words 'Lemon, Ginger and Mint'.
Russell Hobbs Bumblebee & Small Polka Dot Retro 4 Slice Toaster
Look forward to your toast and marmalade with this Russell Hobbs Polka Dot & Bee 4 Slice Toaster, featuring a charming bee and polka dot print.
Dog owners can surprise their furry friends with this personalised hearts blue bowl.
"Simply choose what you'd like us to script on the piece and leave the rest to us," says the team at Emma Bridgewater. "All our pottery is handmade and hand-decorated in our factory in Stoke on Trent. Like this pattern but looking for a different shape? Choose a different piece from our Personalised Blue Hearts collection."
Serve refreshing drinks to your friends and family with this Roses 1/2 Pint Jug. It could also be used for your spring flowers.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
