How to Choose the Best Cut Flowers at the Grocery Store, According to a Florist

Pick a Focal Flower

If the pre-arranged bouquets don't excite you, know that you can easily arrange your own fancy florals centered around one magnificent flower. "A go-to formula?" asks Hannah Bascom, lead designer at florist Amelia's Flowers. "One standout piece, a few fun accents, and everything feels pulled together."

"Start by picking your focal flower, something that will really be the star of the show," Bascom says. "Then choose complementary greenery or filler, along with a couple of supporting blooms that add interesting color or texture."

Go Local

Many flowers are grown and harvested in various climates across the globe. (Did you think Valentine’s Day roses were in bloom everywhere in the dead of winter?) Flowers shipped from South America are not necessarily as fresh as those grown in a greenhouse a few hours from the supermarket.

Some tags and labels will indicate the origin of cut flowers. This can help you make sustainable choices as well as stems that will last longer. If the flower section is staffed, you can also ask which flowers came in most recently and from where.

Beware of Signs of Rot

If any element in the bouquet is browning, wilting, or rotting, it’s likely that the rest will follow suit quickly. Inspect each bouquet as you would produce. If everything’s not up to par, move on. 

Try the Squeeze Test

Bascom offers this simple trick to help estimate the life expectancy of cut flowers in a bouquet. "Gently squeeze the head of the flower," instructs Bascom. "If it feels very soft or looks droopy, it’s probably nearing the end of its life. But if it feels firm and fresh, it’s a good sign that it will continue to bloom beautifully at home."

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Select a Color Scheme

While a rainbow bouquet has its charms, staying within one color family can help your florals look a bit more structured and professional. "Color harmony is key," says Bascom, who suggests using a color wheel to help guide your selection.

"Look for tones that complement each other instead of clashing. Start with a main color you love and then build around it with similar or complementary shades."

Opt for Texture

Bascom suggests mixing textures (think spiky blue thistle and smooth greenery) for a layered look that adds visual interest. "A bit of balance and thoughtfulness goes a long way in making your bouquet feel cohesive and elevated," she says.

Take Care of Your Arrangement

To make the most of your purchase, ensure you care for the flowers properly. "You can help extend the life of any bouquet by changing the water daily, trimming soggy stems, keeping the water clean of petals and debris, and keeping the bouquet out of direct sunlight," Bascom says.

Look for Long-Lasting Blooms

Look for flower and bouquet options featuring long-lasting varieties. Zinnias, dahlias, and peonies, for example, all tend to last longer when cut.

However, remember to ultimately pick the blooms that call to you. "Choose the flowers that bring you the most joy," says Bascom. "Enjoy them fully, take good care of them, and then thank them when they’ve lived their last life on your table."