You might be wondering how to make flowers last longer when harvested from your garden.

Meet the Expert

Arissa DeFrancesca is a professional florist atBank of Flowers.

They need water and food just like you.

Flowers in Vases

Flowers in Vasesknape/E+ / Getty Images

They like showers just like you.

They need haircuts just like you."

Be sure to cut at an angle when possible.

cut bouquet

Alena Shafieva / Getty Images

Change the Water Every 2 to 3 Days

DeFrancesca says fresh water is also a must.

Once you fill avaseand set your flowers out, don’t ignore them.

If you do, they will die much sooner.

bouquet

Bank of Flowers

Change out their water every couple of days and opt for cooler waterthey won’t like heat.

Remember to only fill your vase two-thirds of the way.

Some flowers may last a few days, others a couple weeks.

flower arrangement

Jena Ardell / Getty Images

If you have a breezy area or air-conditioned room, this is the best spot for them.

At the very least, keep them away from direct sunlight, radiators, and other heaters.

However, it’ll do the most if used sparingly.

bouquet

Jose Villa

Tip

If you want to display yourhydrangeas, make them happiest by misting the petals with water.

By killing bacteria, flower stems will remain open and strong enough to drink water and stay hydrated.

Bleach will also reduce the smell of wilting flowers.

bouquet

Bank of Flowers

But be careful, you only need a few drops for this trick to work.

The older the penny (before the 1980s is best), the better it is for your flowers.

The natural antimicrobial properties of copper help deter bacteria.

One tablespoon of vodka added to a vase of lukewarm water should do the trick.

You’ll want to use lemon-lime soda (yes, the bang out matters).

Yes,adding sugar to watercan help flowers live longer.

The nutrients in sugar feed the flowers, helping them to thrive.

Apple cider vinegar can make flowers last longer, but only when combined with sugar.

Be sure to change the water and add more vinegar and sugar every few days to keep it fresh.

Sugar and lemon-lime soda are two substitutes for flower food that provide nutrients for flowers.