What factors affect the longevity of a floral arrangement?

The longevity of a floral arrangement is primarily influenced by water quality, temperature, and flower variety.

Water quality plays a crucial role because clean water free from impurities helps to ensure that flowers can effectively uptake moisture and nutrients needed for their survival. Additionally, the temperature in which the arrangement is kept can significantly impact its lifespan; cooler temperatures generally slow down respiration and ethylene production, both of which can lead to faster aging of the flowers.

Flower variety is another vital factor as different types of flowers have varying lifespans and care requirements. Some flowers are bred to have longer shelf lives, while others may be more delicate and prone to wilting quickly. Certain species also naturally last longer due to their structural characteristics and resilience to environmental stressors.

In contrast, the other options focus on factors that have less direct impact on the longevity of cut flowers. For example, the type of soil and pot are more relevant to potted plants rather than cut arrangements. Similarly, color combinations and design style are primarily aesthetic considerations and do not affect how long the flowers will last. Finally, while the size of the vase and height of the arrangement may influence the visual appeal and stability, they do not significantly determine how long the flowers remain fresh.