How to prep & Condition flowers for your wedding

So you’ve picked up your DIY buckets from the farm—fresh, local, and absolutely bursting with beauty. Now what?

Before you start arranging, your blooms need a little care to help them shine on the big day. Proper prep and conditioning help flowers last longer, open fully, and look their absolute best from first look to last dance.

Don’t worry—this part is simple and actually kind of peaceful. Let’s walk through it together.

Why It Matters

Flowers are living things, prepping and conditioning rehydrates them, allows blooms to open fully, and extends their vase life.

Step-by-Step: Flower Prep 101

1. Unpack with care
Once you're home, gently remove your blooms from their wrapping and lay them out on a table or flat surface. You might spot some soft petals or lose foliage from the ride—totally normal. Just set those aside as you sort.

2. Strip stems
Remove any leaves that will fall below the waterline. This helps prevent bacteria buildup and keeps the water clean. Take your time and enjoy getting familiar with your flowers.

3. Re-cut every stem
Give each stem a fresh cut at a 45° angle using sharp scissors or floral shears. This opens them up to soak in fresh water after their journey. Even if we trimmed them before pickup, a fresh cut helps!

4. Hydrate and rest
Place your stems in clean buckets (use small bathroom trash cans for additional cheap buckets) or vases filled with a few inches of cool water. Keep them in a cool, dark room (like a basement, laundry room, or shaded garage). This gives them time to rest, hydrate, and start opening up beautifully.

Bonus: How to Wire Stems for Event Florals

If you’re making boutonnieres, floral crowns, or arch installs, wiring can give soft stems extra support. Here are two helpful how-to videos that walk you through simple techniques:

QUICK TIPS

start early

If possible, plan to condition your flowers 1–2 days before arranging. This gives you flexibility and breathing room.

cool, not cold

Avoid the fridge (unless it’s floral-safe)—most household fridges are too cold and too dry. A basement or garage is often just right.

Open vs. Closed blooms

Some flowers arrive in tight buds. That’s okay! They'll open beautifully over a day or two. Gently encourage blooming by placing in warmer water or a sunnier room.
Pro Tip! You can gently use your fingers to separate and open blooms, or twirl the stem between your hands—this works beautifully on roses, lisianthus, and similar multi-petalled blooms.