Caring for Fresh Cut Roses
Caring For Fresh Cut Birds of Paradise
Caring For Fresh Cut Lilies

Wilting or Stressed Flowers
If the stems appear stressed - this is not unusual with tulips, lisianthus, and other flowers with less rigid stems - place them upright in a container of lukewarm water for about an hour. When they've regained their strength, you can remove the wrapping and sleeve, and arrange the flowers.

Cut the Stem Ends
Using sharp pruning shears and holding the stems underwater, cut off about an inch from each stem; cut on the diagonal. Avoid using scissors, which can crush the stem rather than make a clean cut.

Remove Lower Leaves
Remove the lower leaves on the stems (leaves that will be underwater when the flowers are in a vase). Leaves below the water in the vase will invite harmful bacteria formation.

Add Floral Preservative to the Vase
Use a floral preservative to help your flowers last even longer. Sprinkle the contents of one packet into the vase; fill the vase with fresh, lukewarm water. Now it's ready for your cut flowers.

Protect Your Flowers
Keep your fresh flowers out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources, such as forced air vents or fireplaces. Cool temperatures lengthen the life of your flowers. Snip spent blooms as they fade to keep your bouquet looking fresh.

Change the Water
Once every 2 or 3 days, remove the bouquet from the vase and give the stems a fresh cut underwater. Wash the vase; then refill it with more floral preservative and fresh, lukewarm water.

Admire Your Flowers
Be sure to place your flowers in a location where you'll see and enjoy them