Did you bring home, send or otherwise receive a gorgeous flower design like Bright 10? If so, you’re probably thrilled. They’ve brought color and life into your home or someone else’s, and you’ll take pleasure and enjoyment at seeing them there everyday, bright and happy, beckoning you to slow down, pay attention and appreciate the beauty in your life. How do you keep those flowers going for as long as possible? Read on for Mary Murray’s Flowers’ top tips for helping your flowers live their best life.

• Keep the vase filled (or floral foam soaked) with water containing a flower food provided by your florist. Flower foods provide sugars, balance pH and limit bacterial growth. It is important to follow the mixing directions on the food packet. Most packets are to be mixed with either a pint or a quart of water. Do not dilute with more water than is specified on the packet.
• Check your arrangement daily to make sure it has plenty of clear fresh water. If possible, re-cut stems by removing one to two inches with a sharp knife or scissors that will not crush the stems. Immediately place the stems into warm solution or deeply and firmly back into floral foam.
• Keep flowers in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, directly under ceiling fans, or near appliances. Heat from appliances or hot and cold drafts cause flowers to dehydrate.With a little know-how and effort, your bright blossoms will stay that way for as long as possible.