There's something quietly uplifting about a bunch of carnations sitting on your table. Their ruffled petals and gentle scent can brighten a room instantly, but keeping them fresh takes more than just putting them in water.

With a little attention, you can make your carnations last longer and thrive, whether in a vase or in your garden.

<h3>Choose Healthy Stems</h3>

<b>Inspect flowers before buying</b>: Look for firm stems and vibrant petals. Avoid flowers with brown edges, wilted tips, or slimy stems. Healthy carnations will respond better to care and last longer.

<b>Check the buds</b>: Partially closed buds will bloom gradually, giving you a longer display of flowers. Fully open blooms look beautiful but will fade sooner.

<b>Actionable tip</b>: Gently squeeze the stems near the base; a healthy stem should feel solid, not mushy.

<h3>Trim and Prepare the Stems</h3>

<b>Cut at an angle</b>: Use sharp scissors or garden shears to cut stems at a 45-degree angle. This increases water absorption and prevents the stem from sitting flat at the bottom of the vase.

<b>Remove leaves below water line</b>: Leaves in water can rot quickly and cause bacteria growth, shortening the life of your flowers.

<b>Actionable tip</b>: Re-cut stems every two to three days to improve water uptake and keep carnations fresh.

<h3>Use Clean Water and the Right Vase</h3>

<b>Change water regularly</b>: Fresh water reduces bacteria that can damage the flowers. Change it at least every two days and rinse the vase to remove any residue.

<b>Flower food is helpful</b>: Dissolving a small packet of flower food in the vase can provide nutrients and inhibit bacterial growth. If you don't have flower food, a pinch of sugar and a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar can work as a substitute.

<b>Actionable tip</b>: Place the vase in a location with indirect sunlight and away from heating vents, which can dry out the flowers.

<h3>Temperature and Environment</h3>

<b>Cool temperatures are ideal</b>: Carnations prefer cooler conditions. Avoid placing them near windows with direct sunlight, radiators, or appliances that generate heat.

<b>Avoid drafts</b>: Sudden temperature changes or air currents from fans can cause petals to wilt faster.

<b>Actionable tip</b>: Overnight, consider moving carnations to a cooler room to extend their vase life.

<h3>Maintenance and Longevity</h3>

<b>Remove wilted flowers promptly</b>: Dead or dying blooms can release ethylene gas, which speeds up the aging process of nearby flowers.

<b>Support tall stems</b>: If your carnations are tall, use floral wire or a taller vase to prevent them from bending or snapping.

<b>Actionable tip</b>: Mist the petals lightly with water daily to keep them hydrated and vibrant.

Caring for carnations is simple once you understand their needs. By selecting healthy stems, trimming and preparing them properly, keeping their water fresh, and maintaining a suitable environment, your carnations can remain a cheerful presence for weeks. Paying attention to these details not only extends their life but also allows you to enjoy their delicate beauty to the fullest.