Ten tips to make your cut flower bouquets last longer. To make home-grown flowers last the longest possible time after you cut them, you should do everything you can to retain moisture in the stems and blossoms. Most flowers continue to take up water after they are cut, which explains why you can see the water level go down in a glass vase or jar filled with flowers. Yet some plants need special help with drinking, including those with stems that are woody or hollow. Keep reading to soak up all the subtle secrets of proficient flower pickers.
Cut flower stems early in the morning, when they're plump with water.
Choose flowers that are freshly opened or just on the verge of opening. Most will continue to unfurl after they are cut. Use sharp pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife to cleanly slice the stem. The idea is to avoid smashing the cells that will carry on the work of taking up water. Cut at an angle when cutting thick stems.