Most commercially grown flowers will last at least a week if you care for them properly. Here's a few basic steps you can follow to get extra life and pleasure from your flowers.
1. Make sure vases are very clean - bacteria kills flowers
2. Use fresh lukewarm water with commercial cut flower food added - the only exception is spring bulb flowers - they prefer cold water.
3. Strip all leaves below the water level - rotting leaves causes bacteria which kills flowers
4. Take at least 3cm (1") off all stems, making a slanted cut with a sharp knife or very sharp scissors - this creates a bigger area to take up water.
5. Avoid direct sunlight, heat, or draughts which can shorten flowers lives.
6. Keep flowers away from fruit and remove faded flowers as they occur.
7. Top up the water regularly and add flower food in proportion.
