Flowers are really popular to send to loved ones on special occasions such as Valentines Day, Mother’s Day, weddings, and anniversaries. Places such as offices and homes are more comfortable and lively when flowers are used as decorations. These gifts of nature smell and look fantastic, which makes them so great. They have unique shapes, bright colors, and they have the most wonderful smells only nature can provide.

The downside? Fresh flowers don’t stay fresh for long especially if you don’t take care of them properly. Not all of us are florists and gardeners, but here are some surefire ways to make bouquets you receive last a little longer:

- If possible, use flower food or floral foam in your vases instead of just water. These can be bought from and/or provided by your florist.

- If the floral foam solution turns cloudy, replace it completely. Same goes for those who are using only water; replacing it daily with fresh water is a must.

- No flower foam or flower food? Make your own! Simply mix a teaspoon of bleach, a tablespoon of sugar, and a gallon of water. Viola! Your homemade flower food. If these ingredients are unavailable, try mixing a 12-ounce can of clear, non-diet soda (like Sprite or 7-Up) with half a gallon of water. The acid in the soda will slow down growth of bacteria in the water, while the sugar will feed the plant.

- Re-cut your flower stems at a 45-degree angle using a sharp cutting tool, such as a sharp knife, good pair of scissors, or pruning shears. Cut the stems underwater to allow more water absorption instead of air. A 45-degree angle stem cut will also improve liquid absorption of the plants.

- Some flowers generally last longer than others. Once they wilt, take them from the vase.

- Get rid of leaves that will be below the waterline of the vase, to lessen bacteria growth in the water.

- Remember to place your flower arrangement in a cool, dry spot, away from heat. About 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit is the recommended temperature for flowers, away from heating or cooling vents, directly under ceiling fans, on top of televisions or radiators, and away from direct sunlight. Failing to do so will cause your flowers to dehydrate and make them wilt prematurely.

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