When you receive roses or any cut flowers there are few things you can do to help them last, if not as long as your everlasting love, at least a few extra days.

* Trim an inch or so off the bottom of the stem, preferably with the a sharp knife.
* Remove any leaves that will be under the water.
* place the flowers in a clean vase and add water mixed with the floral food provided by the florist. Be sure to read the directions on the floral food. Too much can cause as much of a problem as too little. Also, it helps to use warm water, not cold.
* Check the water daily. Add water when necessary. If the water becomes cloudy, pour it out and replace it with fresh water and floral food. If you’re out of the floral food, a blend of 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon bleach and 2 teaspoons lemon or lime juice with a quart of warm water will do the job. It’s a good idea to trim another inch off the stem when you change water and again remove any leaves that will now be under water.
* It is also a good idea to avoid placing cut flowers on top of TV’s and stereos, or in windows where the sun can overheat them.