If you’ve received a bouquet from us, you may have noticed that we don’t include sachets of flower food. That choice is intentional.
Our arrangements are created with premium, A-grade blooms, professionally conditioned to last beautifully without additives. Lower-grade stems often rely on preservatives to compensate for handling and shelf life, while our flowers are chosen, prepared, and presented at a standard where sachets simply aren’t required.
That said, some clients enjoy the reassurance of “belt-and-braces” care or want to squeeze out every possible day. For those who’d like the option, we’ve put together a proven DIY flower food recipe using simple pantry ingredients. Think of it as an optional extra, and never a necessity with our flowers.
Why Kate Hill Flowers doesn’t include sachets
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Grade over gimmicks: We design with top-tier stems that hydrate and hold naturally.
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Eco-conscious: Fewer single-use packets means less chemicals in waterways and less waste to landfill.
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Consistency: Longevity is driven more by vase hygiene, water quality, and placement than powder.
In short, your bouquet has everything it needs to thrive without sachets. But for those who prefer the comfort of “best practice”, here’s a safe, reliable recipe.
The optional DIY flower food recipe (per 1 litre)
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1 teaspoon white sugar
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1 teaspoon white vinegar (or lemon juice)
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¼ teaspoon unscented household bleach (regular strength)
Method
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Clean your vase thoroughly with warm water, a drop of dish liquid, and a quick vinegar rinse.
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Add 1 litre of fresh, cool tap water.
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Stir in sugar until dissolved, then vinegar, then the tiny measure of bleach.
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Re-cut stems 2–3 cm at an angle and place them immediately into the prepared vase.
Why it works: sugar provides energy, acid improves water uptake, and bleach suppresses bacteria. The balance matters. Too much sugar feeds bacteria, and scented bleaches can harm petals.
Important note: This recipe is not necessary for Kate Hill Flowers bouquets. It is simply a safe, optional enhancement for those who wish to use it.
When (and why) you might use it
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During a summer heat wave, when bacteria multiply faster.
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With bulb flowers (like tulips) once they are fully open, using a half-strength mix to prevent overgrowth.
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In hard water areas, where minerals slow hydration.
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If you simply enjoy experimenting and noting the results.
For everyday care with our blooms, you’ll gain more from clean water, sharp re-cuts, and thoughtful placement than from any additive.
The bigger wins: water, vase, and environment
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Change water every 48 hours. Each change is worth more than any additive.
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Keep vases spotless. Biofilm is the hidden thief of vase life.
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Mind the placement. Keep away from heaters, direct sun, and fruit bowls.
If you want a deeper dive, explore our Water Temperature Guide for water temperature tips, and our Flower Care 101 Guide for a step-by-step roadmap.
Frequently asked questions
Why doesn’t Kate Hill Flowers include flower food sachets?
Because our bouquets are crafted with premium, A-grade stems, conditioned professionally to last without additives. The greatest gains come from clean vases, cool water, and good placement.
Can I still use DIY flower food with my Kate Hill bouquet?
Yes, there’s no harm at the stated dilution. Consider it “ultimate best practice” for hot weather or bulb flowers, not a requirement.
How often should I add DIY flower food?
With every full water change, about every 48 hours. Between changes, top up with plain water.
Does bleach really belong in flower food?
In tiny amounts, yes. It acts as a mild antibacterial. Use unscented bleach only, and never exceed ¼ teaspoon per litre.
A final note
At Kate Hill Flowers, we believe that the finest blooms, expertly prepared, and cared for with thought, are long lasting without sachets or shortcuts. But if you enjoy experimenting, or like the reassurance of a “little extra”, our DIY recipe is a safe way to try.
If you'd like to take a deeper dive on the topic of flower care, please read Flower Care 101: The Complete Beginner’s Guide
Kate x
