You've just received a gorgeous bouquet of colorful, fragrant flowers. Now what? Here are some tips for keeping your flowers beautiful longer.

In The Beginning
Re-cut your flower stems at an angle under lukewarm water using a sharp knife. Remove any leaves from the bottom of the stem as leaves should never be covered with water. Arrange each flower separately into a vase or container filled with room temperature water and floral preservative. If no preservative is available, use a drop of bleach. Empty and refill the vase or container with clean water each day.

For Longer Life
For lilies & gladioli add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the water. For roses & snapdragons add a pinch of salt to the water. Reduce murky water by adding one aspirin tablet. Spray a fine mist of water on leaves & blossoms during hot weather. Place your bouquet in a cool location, and away from direct sunlight, electrical appliances and drafts.

For Rejuvenation
Dip flower stems into a cup of vodka or gin for just a few seconds, then replace into fresh water. Immerse the entire flower (blooms & stems) under cool water for ten minutes.