5 Surprising Tricks To Help Cut Flowers Last Longer

There's nothing quite like a vase of fresh flowers to lift and refresh the home. But unfortunately, most fresh cut flowers don't last very long.

The secret to keeping cut flowers looking good for as long as possible is to minimize the growth of bacteria in the water and to provide nourishment to replace what the flowers would have gotten had they not been cut. This is why bouquets often come with sachets which usually contain a mild disinfectant and sugar. But there are other ways you can stop your flowers wilting and drooping after only a few days.

Cut flowers will also last longer if the stems are prepared correctly, as preparing the stems helps them take up water quickly. Cut about half an inch of the end, at a forty-five degree angle.

Don't use dull scissors as they could crush the stem instead! For best results, try cutting the stems underwater (in a sink filled with cold water), as this will prevent air from getting into the veins in the stem of yor flower. You'll also want to place the stems in deep water and leave them there for a few hours before moving them into shallower water. Once you've filled up your vase, be sure to remove all leaves from the part of the stem that's under water – this not only helps the flowers but also keeps the water cleaner. To prevent an airlock in flowers like tulips, pierce the stems with a needle a few times.Once you've got your cut flowers and vase at the ready, here are five ways to make your flowers last as long as possible – you'll be surprised how long the arrangement stays fresh!

1. Vodka

Vodka inhibits bacteria growth so a few drops would help keep the water clean for fresh flowers, advises plant expert Jane Earthy.

2. Lemonade

The sugar in the lemonade nourishes the plants and will make the blossoms last longer, says horticultural expert Peter Burks.If you have a clear vase and want the water to remain clear, use a clear lemonade like Sprite or 7Up. A teaspoon of sugar works just as well, advises Jane Earthy.

3. Pennies

The copper in pennies works as an acidifier and inhibits bacteria, explains Jane Earthy.Putting a copper coin in the bottom of a vase can help your tulips stand strong, rather than drooping around the vase, confirms plant expert Katie Gilbert.4. Boiling hot waterYes, really! You can help roses and hydrangeas last longer by cutting the stem at an angle and then pouring boiling water over the fresh cut ends, before putting into the vase, says horticulturalist Nikki Hollier.5. AspirinPut a crushed aspirin in the water before adding your flowers to keep them looking fresh and perky.