How much more effective is commercial floral food compared to other methods in extending vase life?

Commercial floral food is specifically formulated to provide the essential nutrients that cut flowers need to thrive in a vase. This includes sugars, which help with photosynthesis, as well as preservatives that inhibit bacterial growth and improve water uptake. Research has shown that the use of commercial floral food can enhance the vase life of cut flowers significantly, often in the range of 40-80% when compared to other methods like plain water or homemade solutions.

This enhanced effectiveness is primarily due to the science behind the formulation, which not only nourishes the flowers but also helps maintain a cleaner water environment. While simple methods like using plain water can offer some benefits, they do not provide the comprehensive care that commercial floral food does, leading to the substantial increase in vase life observed.

The precise range of 40-80% reflects the consensus in horticultural studies and practical observations from florists, emphasizing the importance of using specialized solutions for the best care of cut flowers.