If you’ve ever been captivated by the vibrant beauty of poppies, you’ll know they’re one of nature’s most striking flowers. But as delicate as they look, poppies can be surprisingly tricky to keep fresh. That’s where a little floral insider knowledge comes in—like the technique featured in our TikTok video: burning the stems!
Poppies have hollow stems that are prone to leaking sap after being cut. This sap can quickly clog the stem and prevent the flower from absorbing water properly, leading to a shorter vase life. By sealing the stem’s end with heat—like carefully burning it—you stop the sap from flowing out and ensure the flower can hydrate effectively. It’s a small but powerful trick that makes all the difference.
In the video, you’ll see how we use a flame to carefully seal the ends of the poppy stems. It’s a quick process, but one that requires attention to detail. After burning the stem, we immediately place it in water to lock in freshness. The result? Poppies that last longer and look their absolute best.
If you’re arranging poppies at home, you can try this method yourself with the right tools and precautions:
Want to see the process in action? Watch our TikTok video for a behind-the-scenes look at how we do it!
At Rachel Cho Floral Design, we adore working with poppies for their unique shapes and bold colors. Whether they’re the star of an arrangement or an eye-catching accent, these blooms never fail to make a statement. Using techniques like stem burning allows us to showcase their beauty while ensuring they stay fresh for as long as possible.
Next time you bring poppies into your home, give this tip a try—and let us know how it works for you!
