Drop a penny in a vase of flowers. Here's why. Most florists wouldn't tell you

Flowers are a timeless way to express emotions or add a touch of nature's beauty to your environment. Whether it's a celebration, an expression of love, or simply to brighten up a space, a vase brimming with fresh blooms can do wonders. But how can we make these flowers last longer and keep them looking fresh? There's a simple trick that might surprise you: dropping a penny in the vase. Before you shrug off this old wives' tale as myth, let's delve into the science and practical reasons behind this floral hack that many florists might keep under their hats.

1. Copper acts as an acidifier.

When you drop a penny into the water in your flower vase, it isn't just sitting there for decoration or luck. Pennies, particularly those minted before 1982, are made primarily from copper. Copper is known to act as an acidifier when it comes into contact with water. This subtle change in the pH level of the water can help to prevent the growth of bacteria, ensuring your flowers have a cleaner environment in which to thrive.

2. A natural antibacterial agent.

Copper has natural antibacterial properties, and adding a penny to the water can function similarly to preservatives that come with flower food packets. This helps to keep the water clearer and reduces the sliminess that can result from bacterial buildup at the stems' ends, which can block the uptake of water and nutrients.

3. It helps flowers absorb more nutrients.

As copper acidifies the water slightly, it can allow for better absorption of nutrients from the water and any added plant food. Flowers need these nutrients to sustain their vibrant colors and maintain the integrity of their petals. By facilitating better nutrient uptake, the penny can contribute to the overall longevity of your cut flowers.

While the penny trick has its benefits, it's essential to follow additional steps to ensure the maximum lifespan of your flowers.

1. Trim the stems.

Before you place your flowers in the vase, and every few days thereafter, cut the stems at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water absorption and prevents the ends from sitting flat on the bottom of the vase, which can inhibit water intake.

2. Use the right water temperature.

Fill your vase with lukewarm water. Hot water may damage the stems, while cold water may shock the flowers. Lukewarm water is best for most cut flowers and facilitates optimal absorption.

3. Keep them cool and out of direct sunlight.

Place flowers in a cool area away from direct sunlight and drafts. Sunlight and heat accelerate the aging process, so keeping flowers cool can significantly extend their life.

4. Change the water regularly.

Replace the water completely every two days, ensuring you rinse the vase before refilling to remove any potential bacteria that might have started to grow.

So the next time you receive a bouquet or bring fresh flowers home, remember to look for that old penny. It's a small gesture that could make a noticeable difference in the life of your beautiful blooms, saving you both time and money, allowing you to enjoy your flowers for as long as possible. And who knows, you might just impress your local florist with your insider knowledge of this handy trick!