How to make your flowers last longer, and other FAQs

Diwali may be the festival of lights, but it’s also India’s unofficial flower season. No house party is complete without a marigold trail, and with new, perfectly poised centerpieces, every celebration seems to bloom a little brighter this time of year. Flowers have always been part of the Diwali story, but somewhere between the fairy lights and the snack platters, figuring out how to make them look stylish can feel… intimidating.

Enter Anuja Joshi, founder of Interflora India and the floral designer the fashion world calls when it wants its blooms to behave like couture. She knows exactly how to make even the simplest stems look stunning. In this floral FAQ, she shares how to create stylish Diwali arrangements, mix traditional Indian flowers with modern blooms, and even make leftovers look luxe. Consider this your cheat sheet to looking like you always knew what you were doing with flowers.

I’m new to floral styling. Which flowers should I pick up?

I’d suggest starting with blooms that are naturally beautiful, easy to handle, and forgiving to work with. First, hydrangeas are an absolute classic. They make a striking statement even on their own and don’t require elaborate styling. Second, consider incorporating filler flowers, such as daisies or santinis. They’re versatile, cheerful, and complement most primary blooms beautifully. Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with greens or exotic flowers, like proteas, lisianthus or tulips. They’re elegant yet easy to manage and can often be used as is, no heavy arranging required.

What colour combos can I never go wrong with?

Red is an eternal favourite. It pairs beautifully with purples, hot pinks, and oranges, creating a bold, celebratory palette that feels festive and luxurious. To enhance that richness, I love introducing a pop of bright orange, especially through Indian marigold. They bring an unmistakable festive charm— warm, joyful, and deeply rooted in our cultural aesthetic. Another timeless palette I often recommend is white and green. It’s elegant, contemporary, and effortlessly fresh. There’s a variety of white blooms available today, from lilies to roses to chrysanthemums.

What’s a rookie mistake to avoid while arranging flowers for festive decor?

It’s quite common for people to over-decorate during festivals. After all, celebration often brings the desire to fill every corner with colour and flowers. But it’s important to remember that, even in its most festive form, your home remains a living, breathing space. The key lies in understanding your space and its flow. Highlight select focal points, such as a beautifully styled dining or grazing table, an elegant, entrance arrangement, a thoughtful console display, or a lush, layered centre table.

I’ve got the flowers. What else do I need?

Floral styling isn’t just about the blooms; it’s also about how you curate the entire composition. When you balance your flowers with thoughtfully chosen props, vases, candles, and artefacts, the whole experience of florals transforms from simple to spectacular.

The true magic often lies in the layering of smaller, complementary elements, like a charming bowl, an heirloom collectible, or a handcrafted trinket. You can even add loose petals, gota flowers, origami accents or decorative curios you’ve picked up over time. These details introduce warmth, personality, and a sense of storytelling to your decor.

Can I style traditional Indian flowers, like marigolds and mogras, for a more contemporary Diwali setup?

One of my favourite techniques is incorporating Indian elements such as tassels and delicate strings crafted from fresh flowers into contemporary, Western-inspired compositions. Even traditionally symbolic blooms, like lotuses, can be arranged beyond conventional styles. By reimagining the structure—making it more abstract or asymmetrical, for example—the arrangement takes on a modern, avant-garde character. When combined thoughtfully with elements like latkans or floral tassels, the result is a harmonious fusion.

The party’s over. What do I do with the leftover flowers?

Even leftover petals have beauty and purpose. Instead of discarding them, give your blooms a second life through composting; platforms like Phool.co turn discarded flowers into nutrient-rich soil. You can also dry petals to make potpourri, press them into candles, or use them in essence sticks and home fragrances.

Is there a way to make the flowers last longer?

Keep your flowers in a cool, air-conditioned space and ensure they’re well-hydrated. Always provide fresh water, and mist any stems left out to maintain freshness. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the blooms. With proper care—cool temperature, moisture, and shade—your arrangements can stay vibrant for three to five days instead of just one or two.