How long will cut flowers last without water?

I just bought my girlfriend some carnations and they wrapped them really nice but the stems arent exposed so i cant put them in water. I wont be seeing her for several hours. Will they last or should I put them in water?

How long will cut flowers last without water?
Yes, they can last DAYS w/o water. Think about it. Flowers are flown in from diff. countries, the they go to the wholesaler then to the florist. "We" rehydrate them by a clean cut and fresh water.

So before you put them in a vase, re cut the stems, at bottom and put into warm water. (warm helps the stems suck up more water... not hot)
Reply:Yes, flowers will last for a day or so based on the type of flower that you have. With carnations and seeing her in a few hours there is nothing to worry about. Put them in water after you give them to her (and kiss her first) and you will be fine.
Reply:Yeah they'll be fine IF you keep them out of sun and heat. Actually carnations are shipped from South America without water. Keep them wrapped.



When you give them to her, have her immediately fill the kitchen sink or bucket with warm water, not hot in this case, and cut the stems under water and hold them there for a bit. Of course the vase they will go into is already to go with warm water and floral preservative (if it came with the flowers, otherwise plain water is fine) and after a bit transfer the flowers quickly to the vase. VOILA! Carns are really rather forgiving about being out of water.