The Complete Guide to Harvesting & Storing Annual Phlox for Maximum Vase Life

When to Harvest:

• Cut in early morning (6-10 AM) when stems are fully hydrated
• Choose stems where 1/3 to 1/2 of the flower cluster is open
• Avoid cutting in the heat of the day or when flowers are wet from rain

Harvesting Technique:

1. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruners to make a clean cut at a 45-degree angle
2. Cut stems 30-40 cm long (12-16 inches) for maximum versatility in arrangements
3. Cut just above a leaf node to encourage new growth and more blooms
4. Immediately place stems in clean water
   • bring a bucket to the garden

Conditioning Process:

1. Strip lower leaves
   • remove any foliage that will sit below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth
2. Re-cut stems underwater at a 45-degree angle to prevent air bubbles
3. Use clean, room-temperature water mixed with flower food (or 1 tsp sugar + few drops bleach per liter)
4. Condition for 2-4 hours in a cool, dark place before arranging or storing

Storage for Wedding/Event Work:

• Short-term (1-3 days):

• • Keep conditioned stems in clean water in a cool room (12-15°C / 54-59°F)
  • Change water daily and re-cut stems
  • Keep away from direct sunlight, fruit, and heat sources
• Refrigerated storage (up to 5 days):
• • Store at 2-4°C (35-39°F) in a floral cooler
  • Keep in water or use wet floral foam
  • Wrap loosely in paper to prevent crushing delicate blooms

Pro Tips for Maximum Vase Life:

• Add flower preservative to all water - it can double vase life
• Avoid ethylene exposure
  • keep away from ripening fruit, dying flowers, and exhaust fumes
• Mist blooms lightly if they look tired - phlox responds well to humidity
• Re-cut and change water every 2-3 days for arrangements
• Remove spent blooms from clusters to keep arrangements looking fresh

Troubleshooting:

• Wilting stems? Re-cut underwater and place in warm water (38°C/100°F) for 30 minutes
• Cloudy water? Bacterial growth - change immediately and sanitize vase
• Drooping heads? Likely air bubble in stem - re-cut 2-3 cm higher

Expected Vase Life: 7-10 days with proper care