Floral arrangements and decadent centerpieces can really set the tone for any intimate dinner, family get-together, or large celebration. But after toiling over the perfect botanical homage to whatever festivity you’re setting a mood for, the flowers’ delicate petals may wilt before anyone ever steps foot in the door. Instead of turning to a simple water solution, get into the spirit by using, well, spirits. The simple addition of vodka could keep those blooms beautiful for longer than your guests will stay at your home.
It is an absolute truth that cut flowers won’t stay fresh for long. Since separating them from their roots means that they can no longer make food for themselves, they rely on their environment to stay hydrated and fed. However, because cut flowers can’t as effectively absorb water or nutrients, petals will eventually droop, leaves will wilt and stems will dry up. In order to slow down this degradation, proper aftercare is essential, starting with letting flowers indulge in a cocktail.
The floral vodka hack is super straightforward. For longer-lasting arrangements, just mix a modest amount of the spirit into a vase of water. Generally, a spoonful should suffice, as too much can actually do harm. Once the vodka is well diluted, add trimmed flowers to the vase, and bask in their beauty.
The science behind adding vodka to flower vases
In comparison to stems placed in plain water, those kept in a vodka-laced vase tend to long just a bit longer. One reason why this is the case is that the alcohol in the vodka is able to keep bacteria and mold at bay, which can help maintain the flowers’ living conditions and extend their lifespan. But the reality is that spirits behave like a preservative. According to Scientific American, vodka can prevent the production of ethylene gas, which is emitted as a plant ripens and matures. By halting its production, this can slow the process of wilting.
Next question, is the hack suitable for any kind of flower? In theory, it should work with stunning single-stem holiday centerpieces and bountiful bouquets of any variety. Yet, as helpful as vodka can be to keep flowers perky, it’s not a catch-all cure. In conjunction with using the spirit, it’s still necessary to maintain an environment where flowers can thrive. For instance, placing blooms in a clean vase (and keeping it clean!) is just as important as frequently replenishing water and trimming stems. Arrangements should also be kept out of direct heat or light, and even far from other plants or fruits that produce ethylene. Despite that vodka might not be as effective as the silver thiosulfate used by some professional growers, adding a splash of the hard stuff to a vase definitely couldn’t hurt.
