1. Replenish Water

Change the water entirely every 2-3 days. Fresh flowers drink a LOT of water. It is not uncommon for a vase of fresh flowers to suck up all the water within a day or two. Keep the vase full to ensure they do not run out and wilt. Flowers are also highly susceptible to bacteria that builds up as stems sit in the water. Changing the water every few days, even if the water hasn’t been used up, will help keep your flowers fresh longer. Carefully tip the vase over a sink to let the water drain without disturbing the design. Then re-fill the vase by gently pouring water in at the top of the vase.

2. Trim the ends

Trim at least half an inch off the stems each time you change the water. This helps remove the tissue at the tips that may be breaking down and once again exposing fresh tissues that helps absorb water.

3. Keep out of direct sun

Cut flowers are the opposite of potted plants, they cannot tolerate direct heat or sun. They are at their peak of perfection. Direct sunlight will encourage them to mature and thus quicken their demise. Instead, keep your flowers in a cool, dark spot if you want them to last the longest!

4. Wash your Vase

Use hot soapy water or put it in the dishwasher. Bacteria builds up inside the vase and they do not go away once it’s dried. Give your new flowers a fresh, clean environment, free of bacteria, and they will last much longer!

5. Use Flower Food

While changing the water every 2-3 days is often just as effective for making flowers last longer, adding flower food packets that come with packaged flowers can be beneficial as well.* (This is especially true if you’re forgetful/lazy and won’t be changing your flowers’ water regularly). In addition to “feeding” the bouquet, these food packets contain a bactericide that keeps the water fresh for a day or two longer. You can make your own flower food by adding

• 1 teaspoon of sugar,

• 2 teaspoons of lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon of bleach

  to your vase before adding about a quart of warm tap water.

  *It is worth noting that there are a few flowers that actually do NOT like flower food in the vase. Some of these are: zinnias, sunflowers and glads.