When is the best time to cut flowers for maximum longevity?

The best time to cut flowers for maximum longevity is early morning or late afternoon. During these times, the temperatures are cooler, and the plants have had the opportunity to replenish their moisture levels overnight. In the morning, flowers are at their freshest as they have absorbed water during the nighttime, making them less stressed and more resilient to the cutting process. Similarly, late afternoon typically sees cooler temperatures as well, which helps to maintain hydration in the flowers.

Cutting flowers during midday when temperatures are high can lead to stress and dehydration, as flowers may lose moisture quickly. While overcast days can also be favorable due to lower light intensity, they aren’t necessarily the optimal times compared to early morning or late afternoon. Evening cutting might seem appealing because flowers are cooling down, but they are less robust than at the start of the day. Thus, early morning or late afternoon is preferred for ensuring the highest quality and longevity of the cut flowers.