The Florist’s Secret: How to Make Your Wild Posy Blooms Last (Even in the WA Heat)

We all know the feeling: you receive a stunning bouquet, place it on the table, and just two days later, it’s looking a little... sad. As your local Secret Harbour florist, the most common question we get asked in-store is, "How do I keep these alive?"

The good news? You don't need a green thumb. You just need a few trade secrets.

Here is your definitive guide to making your blooms last longer, straight from the workbench at Wild Posy.

1. The "Cut & Plunge" Technique

The moment your flowers arrive at your door (or you bring them home from our shop), their stems have started to seal up. This blocks water from traveling up to the flower head.

• The Fix: Unwrap your bouquet and cut about 2cm off the bottom of each stem at a sharp 45-degree angle.

• Why? This angle increases the surface area for drinking water.

• Pro Tip: Get them into water immediately after cutting — don't let them sit on the bench while you find a vase!

2. Location, Location, Location

We love our Western Australian sun, but your flowers... not so much.

• Avoid the Window: Glass amplifies heat, which will dehydrate your petals fast.

• Watch the Air Con: It might feel nice to you, but a direct draft from an air conditioner (or heater in winter) creates a dry breeze that saps moisture from the blooms.

• The Sweet Spot: A cool, shady spot on a table or bench away from direct appliances is perfect.

3. Natives vs. Soft Blooms: Know the Difference

At Wild Posy, we love mixing hardy natives with soft, seasonal blooms, but they can be a bit like different pets — they need different care.

• Soft Blooms (Roses, Lilies, Tulips): These are thirsty! They love clean water and flower food. Change their water every 2 days to stop bacteria from growing.

• Natives (Banksias, Proteas, Gum): These legends are built for our climate. They are incredibly hardy and often dry out beautifully. They don't always need flower food — just clean, fresh water is best.

4. The Daily Check-In

You don't need to fuss over them constantly, but a quick daily check works wonders.

• Cloudy Water? That means bacteria. Tip it out, give the vase a quick scrub, and refill with fresh water.

• Wilting Head? If just one flower is drooping, pull it out, re-cut the stem, and pop it back in. Sometimes a "fainting" flower just has an air bubble in its stem!

Ready for fresh blooms?
Now that you're an expert in flower care, why not treat yourself? Browse our Florist's Choice Bouquets or pick up a hardy Native Arrangement online.

Got a specific question about a plant or flower? Pop into Shop 118, Secret Harbour Square—we’d love to help!