Change the water completely every 2–3 days. Always use clean, lukewarm water — it's easier for most flowers to absorb than cold water and helps keep bacteria at bay.

Tulips? Use cold water instead.

Every few days, trim about an inch off the stems using sharp scissors or shears. Cut at a 45-degree angle — this increases the surface area for water absorption and keeps your flowers drinking well.

Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, and the tops of electronic devices. A cool room away from direct heat is ideal. Heat speeds up wilting — the cooler the spot, the longer the blooms last.

Remove any wilted flowers or leaves as they appear — especially any foliage that falls below the water line. Submerged leaves decay quickly and introduce bacteria that shortens the life of the whole arrangement.

Keep your arrangement away from fruit bowls and vegetables. Ripening fruit emits ethylene gas — a natural plant hormone that accelerates aging and causes flowers to wilt and drop petals prematurely.

Check the water level daily and top it off when it looks low. Flowers — especially in the first few days — can drink surprisingly large amounts. Never let the stems sit without water.

When moving your vase, take care. Rough handling can bruise petals, snap delicate stems, and jostle the arrangement out of its shape. Lift from the base and move slowly — your flowers are worth the extra moment.

Keep flowers away from drafts, smoke, and extreme temperature changes — all of these accelerate wilting. An interior spot away from air vents, open windows, and cooking areas will do them a lot of good.