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F lowers live or die based on the availability of water to stems, leaves and blooms. Indeed, water stress may be the most signifi cant factor aff ecting vase life in cut fl owers. Flowers die prematurely when the amount of water being absorbed is less than the amount lost from the stems, leaves and blooms. Research has shown that several factors can lead to reduced water absorption, including bacteria; air blockages; and water quality, especially water pH. Poor water quality can reduce the amount of water absorbed. Without water, individual cells cannot function. is is particularly critical for cut fl owers that must get water from a bucket or vase solution. Flowers open by using water to enlarge the petal cells, just as air infl ates a balloon. New petal cells are not produced after harvest, so a continuous fl ow of water is needed by the fl ower if it is to open fully and remain viable for seven days. Sugars from fl ower foods in bucket/vase water supply energy to supplement the fl ower's naturally occurring sugars. Some people assume that all water is the same regardless of the source, but water quality varies by geographical location or even from one well to another. Four water quality parameters may aff ect the life of fl owers: pH, alkalinity, hardness and total dissolved solids (TDS). 1. pH pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the solution and may range from 0 to 14. A pH of 1 is extremely acidic while a pH of 14 is extremely basic (also referred to as alkaline). A pH of seven is neutral. e pH of water aff ects the ability of fl ower stems to absorb water. Water with a pH between 3.5 and 5 are best for water absorption and vase life. Flower foods and hydration solutions are designed to lower water pH to these levels. Research has demonstrated clearly and consistently that solution pH impacts water absorption. Flowers and stems Water Quality and Flower By Terril A. Nell, Ph.D., AAF Research Director American Floral Endowment Are you doing everything right, but your fl owers still don't last as long as they should? It could be your water. Longevity Design 40 October | 2022