Sunflower season is in full swing with many people using bouquets of the cut flowers to brighten up their homes.

However, it can become frustrating and costly to replace them if they keep drooping every few days. Flower expert Jo Lambell warned of one common mistake people make with their sunflowers is positioning.

Placing them near fruit and other produce can be dramatically reducing their lifespan.

The Beards & Daisies founder explained: "Fruits release ethylene gas, which speeds up the wilting process. To maximise the life of your sunflowers, avoid placing them near fruit bowls or ripening produce."

It's also best to avoid positioning your vase in direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators as the warmth can cause the blooms to droop sooner than they should.

Sunflowers also require proper preparation before you place them in the vase, this includes cutting the stems at a 45-degree angle to allow for optimal water absorption.

Once your arrangement is in the vase, with some fresh water added, you'll also need to strip away any leaves that are below or touching the water.

Jo added: "Any leaves below the water line can rot and promote bacterial growth, which shortens your flowers' lifespan. Remove these leaves promptly to keep the water clean and your sunflowers fresh."

Most bouquets come with flower food, but if you find yourself without any, Jo has a handy homemade solution: "You can create your own with household ingredients like lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or a little sugar to provide nutrients."

She also suggested that adding a splash of alcohol such as vodka or gin to the water can greatly benefit your blooms by reducing the amount of ethylene gas, which causes flowers to age and wilt. A few drops of alcohol can help keep your vibrant sunflowers looking fresh for longer.

If alcohol isn't available, Jo recommends using a copper penny instead: "Dropping an old copper penny into the vase water acts as a natural fungicide, helping prevent bacterial growth and keeping your sunflowers vibrant and healthy."

Cut sunflowers can remain bright and lively for about five to 12 days with proper care. In the UK, sunflower season typically runs from July to September, with peak bloom in August, making this month the perfect time to add a cheerful bouquet to your home.