Gardening Tips Can Extend the Life of Your Cut Flowers

If you love flowers but hate the idea of gardening in the Florida heat, you may want to try bringing some of the bright buds inside your home. If you don't have exactly have a "green thumb," Rose Jackson of Anything With Flowers has a few tips to try.

When buying flowers, Jackson suggests gently squeezing the "bulb" of the flower to find some that are firm and about to bloom.

Once you've chosen the flowers, pick out a vase or container that will support the stems and allow room at the top for the flowers to blossom.
Next, Jackson suggests trimming the stems to size and cutting off at least an inch or two from the bottom to allow a healthy opening for the stem to absorb water. Use a knife, not scissors, to cut an angled opening near the bottom of the stem.

Finally, add water and flower food, or even just a drop of bleach, to help preserve the color and life of your flowers.