Adding two common kitchen staples—white vinegar and sugar—to vase water can significantly extend the life of cut flowers, according to a viral TikTok hack from home expert Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila. In a video from June, she demonstrated the simple method, which she says keeps flowers fresh for twice as long.
How the Vinegar and Sugar Hack Works
To apply the hack, fill a vase halfway with water, then add two tablespoons of white vinegar and two tablespoons of sugar (caster or granulated). Stir until the sugar dissolves. The vinegar inhibits bacterial growth, while the sugar provides essential nutrients that flowers lose after being cut, as reported by The Mirror.
Mila wrote in the caption: "All you need is two pantry staples to make your flowers last for double as long. I've tried many different methods, and this one is my go-to. It's so easy and affordable but keeps your flowers fresh!"
Why Sugar and Vinegar Are Effective
Cut flowers immediately begin losing nutrients from photosynthesis, according to specialists at Teleflora. Adding sugar to the water helps replenish these nutrients, keeping blooms vibrant. However, sugar alone can promote bacterial growth, which causes odor and accelerates decay. Combining sugar with vinegar prevents this by lowering the water's pH, creating an environment less suitable for bacteria, as explained by Gardening Know How.
Gardening Know How noted: "Those preserving cut flowers with vinegar are essentially lowering pH, which in turn, increases the acidity. This increase helps to create an environment that is less suitable for the growth of bacteria, which is often the culprit in the speed of decline in freshness of the flowers."
Additional Tips for Longer-Lasting Flowers
Before placing stems in the vase, cut the ends at a 45-degree angle underwater and remove any surplus foliage. Experts recommend changing the water regularly and replenishing the vinegar-sugar mixture to prevent bacteria buildup. The ratio of two tablespoons each per quart of water is generally effective.
This hack works for both supermarket bouquets and freshly cut garden flowers, offering an affordable way to enjoy blooms longer during hot summer months.
