An editorial image illustrating a vase-water change. It does not depict a real person or home.
Topping up replaces only the water that has evaporated; it leaves old water and residue inside the vase. MAFF guidance lists replacing water, washing the vase, and recutting stems as care to do daily when practical.
Rest the flowers safely
Place the flowers gently on a clean damp cloth or in a clean temporary container. Keep the blooms from being crushed and the cut ends from touching a dirty surface.
Discard old water and wash the vase
Check the bottom and inner walls for slime. Wash with running water. If detergent is used, rinse thoroughly so no residue remains.
Refill and inspect the stems
Add the appropriate water depth, rinse the submerged stem sections, and recut a damaged end with a clean, sharp tool.
Follow preservative directions
Water-change timing differs among flower-food products. Follow the product label for both dilution and replacement intervals.
Related: how to use cut-flower preservative
Sources: MAFF; MAFF Kanto; MAFF Chugoku-Shikoku
