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Flower & Plant Care Guide

so they last longer

Your flowers and plants from Terrys Florist are crafted with care — and with the right attention at home, they'll stay beautiful for as long as possible. This guide covers everything you need to know to get the most from your arrangement or plant.

Five simple habits

  • Trim Stems at 45°
  • Change Water Every 2 Days
  • Indirect Sunlight Only
  • Cool Temperatures
  • Use Flower Food

Cut Flower Care

fresh for longer

Fresh-cut flowers need proper water, trimming, and placement to stay vibrant. A few simple habits — consistent water changes, regular stem trimming, and a cool location — can double the life of your arrangement. Follow the steps below for each flower type.

Roses

  1. Fill your vase with lukewarm water — not cold — so stems can absorb it efficiently from the start.
  2. Mix in the provided flower food packet to nourish blooms and slow bacterial growth, extending vase life.
  3. Using clean scissors, trim ¾ inch off each stem at a 45° angle to increase surface area for water uptake.
  4. Replace the water completely every 2 days — fresh water prevents the bacterial buildup that shortens bloom life.
  5. Keep roses in a cool spot with indirect light, away from heaters, appliances, and direct sunlight.

Remove any leaves below the waterline before arranging — submerged foliage decays quickly and contaminates the water.

General Cut Flowers

  1. Fill a clean vase two-thirds full with fresh, cool water mixed with flower food before placing stems.
  2. Strip away any foliage that would fall below the waterline — submerged leaves rot and shorten flower life.
  3. Trim ¾ inch from each stem at a 45° angle just before placing in water to prevent air pockets from forming.
  4. Position your arrangement away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and ripening fruit — ethylene gas from fruit accelerates wilting.
  5. Change water every 1–2 days and re-trim stems each time for the longest-lasting display.

Plants & Dish Gardens

gifts that keep growing

Plant arrangements make lasting gifts — with the right care they can thrive for months or years. Light levels, watering frequency, and temperature all play a role. Find your specific plant type below for tailored guidance.

Dish Garden

  1. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged — soggy roots lead to rot.
  2. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, then allow excess water to drain fully.
  3. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water for more than 30 minutes.
  4. Place in a bright location with diffused, indirect sunlight and stable warmth.

Succulent Dish Garden

  1. Position in bright, indirect sunlight — succulents thrive in light but burn under harsh direct sun.
  2. Water only when the soil is completely dry, typically once per week — overwatering is the most common mistake.
  3. Never allow the pot to sit in standing water, as succulents are highly susceptible to root rot.

Money Tree

  1. Provide bright, indirect sunlight — direct rays can scorch and yellow the leaves.
  2. Rotate the plant a quarter turn monthly so all sides receive even light exposure and grow symmetrically.
  3. Water thoroughly each time, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
  4. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer for healthy growth.

Orchid Plants

  1. Maintain temperatures between 60°F and 80°F — orchids are sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature swings.
  2. Avoid placing near air vents, fans, or exterior doors where cold air can damage blooms.
  3. Fertilize with a diluted orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks during active growing months.
  4. Support tall or leaning stems with a thin stake and soft clips to prevent breakage.
  5. Water every 7–10 days; let water drain completely and wipe any moisture from leaves to prevent rot.

African Violet

  1. Provide bright, indirect sunlight — African Violets thrive near a north- or east-facing window.
  2. Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy; water from below to avoid spotting the leaves.
  3. Keep away from floor vents, fans, and exterior doorways where temperature fluctuations are common.

Peace Lily

  1. Water lightly when the top inch of soil feels dry — Peace Lilies prefer consistent moisture but dislike sitting in wet soil.
  2. Thrives in low to medium indirect light and room temperatures between 65°F and 80°F.
  3. Protect from cold drafts, heating vents, and sudden temperature changes that can cause leaf yellowing.
  4. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer to support healthy growth.

Peace Lilies are mildly toxic to pets and humans. Keep out of reach of children and animals. Wash hands after handling.

Bamboo Plant

  1. Place in bright, indirect light — direct sunlight can cause leaves to yellow and bleach.
  2. Use filtered, bottled, or distilled water; tap water with chlorine or fluoride can damage bamboo over time.
  3. Add a small amount of water every 2–7 days to keep the roots or soil consistently moist but not flooded.
  4. Maintain temperatures between 65°F and 90°F and fertilize lightly once a month.

Poinsettia Plant

  1. Keep indoors in a stable environment between 65°F and 75°F — avoid cold drafts near windows or doors.
  2. Position in a spot with at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight daily for the brightest color.
  3. Water when the soil surface feels dry; water thoroughly, then let excess drain to prevent root rot.

Flower Care FAQ

common questions

Most fresh-cut arrangements last 5–7 days with proper care. Roses often last 7–10 days when stems are trimmed regularly and water is changed every 1–2 days. Using the provided flower food from the start makes a noticeable difference.

Still Have Questions About Your Order?

Our team at Terrys Florist is happy to answer questions about a specific flower or plant, walk you through care steps, or help resolve any concern with your arrangement.

+1 844 772-2173cs@terrysflorist.com