Learn how to make fresh-cut flowers last longer with these florist-approved hacks.

Is there anything better than a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers? The glorious burst of color and gorgeous scent can transform any room. But here’s the unfortunate truth: They start to die once you set them in the vase. All flower arrangements begin wilting within days, and most are dead within a week. That said, you can do some things to make flowers last longer. We asked the experts to share tips on how to help a flower arrangement live its best and longest possible life.

1. TRIM THE STEMS

Long-lasting flowers begin with healthy stems. Since the stems can dry out easily during transit, trimming the flower stems a couple of inches allows blooms to hydrate more efficiently. Cut each stem at a 45-degree angle to maximize the surface area through which flowers intake water. Also, try to cut stems under warm (not hot) running water to ensure they get hydrated immediately. Recutting the stems whenever you change the water will help your flowers stay fresher. Aim to keep the stems a couple of inches from the bottom of the vase. This allows the stems to stay hydrated because they can drink more freely without the bottom of the vase getting in the way.

2. REMOVE THE LOWER LEAVES FROM STEMS

Cut or pluck off any leaves below the water line in your vase. These leaves can contaminate the water with bacteria and kill the arrangement more quickly.

3. KEEP AWAY FROM DIRECT LIGHT AND HEAT

Resist the temptation to display your bouquet in front of a window, because freshly cut stems are surprisingly light-sensitive. Flower arrangements should be removed from direct sunlight and heat sources to stay better hydrated. Note: Cut flowers thrive better in cooler environments.

4. REPLACE WATER EVERY DAY

Remove sediment by giving your stems a fresh drink, and if you see build-up at the bottom of your vase, give the vessel a quick clean. Fill a vase three-quarters of the way with cool tap water before putting flowers on display; regularly replacing and replenishing water is essential to beautiful blooms. Always thoroughly wash your vase with soapy water before adding any flowers.

5. PLUCK WILTED FLOWERS OUT ASAP

Once you notice a cut flower in your arrangement has died, remove it from the bouquet as quickly as possible. Flowers release ethylene gas, which hurts the longevity of living flowers.

6. FLOWER FOOD

Typically, fresh flower bouquets can come with a packet of plant food to add to the water in the vase. When adding the food, it should be mixed well. Add more flower food every two to three days after changing the water. In a pinch, bleach can act as a preservative.

7. REMEMBER FLOWER LONGEVITY VARIES

Not all flowers have the same life expectancy. Each variety is different and may last longer or shorter once the stems are cut and transferred to a vase. If you purchased a pre-made bouquet at a local grocery store, they could have been cut days in advance so the longevity may not be the same as with flowers freshly cut at a florist.