Can Aspirin Make My Flowers Live Longer?

Flowers from KYUEM's Bubble Picnic

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), or more commonly known as aspirin, is a household staple often used to reduce fevers and relieve pain. But did you know it can also help your flowers live longer? In my case, I wanted my flower bouquet from my school's bubble picnic to last more than just a few days. 

Does it really work? Let's dive into the science and investigate!

How Aspirin Works Its Magic on Flowers

ASA reduces the production of ethylene, a plant hormone responsible for aging processes like wilting and petal drop. Chemically, it achieves this by blocking the activity of ACC oxidase, an enzyme that facilitates the final step in ethylene production. Without this step, the cascade of aging signals slows down significantly.

But that’s not all! ASA also boasts antioxidant properties, neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plant cells. These ROS are like tiny saboteurs that accelerate cell breakdown. By halting their damage, ASA helps preserve the vibrant appearance of flowers for longer periods.

Finding the Sweet Spot

Researchers found that a 400 mg/L solution of ASA is the "Goldilocks" dose—not too much, not too little! At this concentration, sunflower stems in studies retained their commercial viability for an average of nine days, compared to just five days for untreated flowers.

But don’t overdo it. Higher concentrations, like 1000 mg/L, didn’t improve the results and sometimes caused harm. Excess ASA can stress the plants and even accelerate their deterioration.

Does it Work for All Flowers?

While ASA works wonders for some flowers, its effects can vary based on the flower’s ethylene sensitivity:

  • High Ethylene-Sensitive Flowers (e.g., carnations, roses, and orchids): ASA is especially effective, as these flowers rely heavily on ethylene to trigger aging. By reducing ethylene production, ASA dramatically slows wilting and petal drop.
  • Low Ethylene-Sensitive Flowers (e.g., gladioli and some wildflowers): While ASA still helps by reducing oxidative stress, its impact might not be as striking since these flowers rely on other factors, like water stress or microbial growth, for senescence.

For best results, combining ASA with additional treatments, like sucrose for hydration or antimicrobial agents, can further enhance flower longevity.

A Simple, Science-Backed DIY Solution

If you’re looking to extend the life of your next bouquet, try this easy formula:

  1. Dissolve 400 mg of aspirin (a standard tablet) in one liter of water. (Do note that aspirin and paracetamol are two different things!)
  2. Use this solution to fill your flower vase.
  3. Change the solution every couple of days to keep it fresh and clear of microbes.

Conclusion: Aspirin for the Win!

Aspirin isn’t just for headaches—it’s a secret weapon for flower lovers everywhere. By reducing ethylene production and oxidative stress, ASA helps flowers stay vibrant longer. Whether you’re preserving a treasured bouquet or sprucing up your living room, this simple trick is backed by science.

Next time your flowers start to fade, remember: a little aspirin goes a long way in keeping them alive and beautiful.

References

  • Asghari, M., & Aghdam, M. S. (2010). Impact of salicylic acid on post-harvest physiology of horticultural crops. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 21(10), 502–509.
  • Bahrami, S. N., Zakizadeh, H., Hamidoghli, Y., & Ghasemnezhad, M. (2013). Salicylic acid retards petal senescence in cut lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum). Horticulture, Environment, and Biotechnology, 54(6), 519–523. 
  • Finger, F. L., Carneiro, T. F., & Barbosa, J. G. (2004). Senescence of post-harvest inflorescences of Consolida ajacis. Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira, 39(6), 533–537. 
  • Srivastava, M. K., & Dwivedi, U. N. (2000). Delayed ripening of banana fruit by salicylic acid. Plant Science, 158(1–2), 87–96. 

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