* Cut the flowers in early morning while the flowers are rested.

* Select flowers in the bud stage, right when they begin to pucker.

* Strip foliage that would be below the water line.

*Add a teaspoon each of bleach, sugar, and vinegar per gallon of water to keep bacteria from forming. 

 

* Change water every five to seven days.

 

* When arranging fresh cut flowers, match the water temperature with the season:  For spring flowers, use ice water, for summer use room temperature water; and for winter flowers, use cool water.

 

*  Try to match the vase or planter with the type and color of flowers that you are arranging for a blended look.