Here are a few tips for keeping your cut flowers fresher longer.

• Recut the stems and remove excess foliage that will be below the water line
• Harden the flowers by setting them in warm water in a cool place
• Use a floral preservative (which provides food to the flowers and prevents bacteria from growing) - preferably one from a florist which will contain the right mix of bactericides, nutrients and plant growth regulators. Alternatively try some of the recipes below.
• Keep them cool and avoid drafts, hot spots and television sets
• Avoid placing near ripe fruit as the fruit will 'ripen' your flowers
• Use a clean vase or container
• Check the water level daily.

Floral preservative recipe 1

• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon household chlorine bleach
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 litre warm water

Floral preservative recipe 2

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon household chlorine bleach
• 1 litre warm water

Floral preservative recipe 3

• 2 cups lemon-lime carbonated beverage (e.g., lemonade)
• 2 cups warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon household chlorine bleach