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Fresh flowers are a speedy way to brighten any space in your home. But take the time to avoid the mistakes that diminish your bouquet's staying power.
1. Going overboard choosing blooms
We're all for creativity, but if you're unsure of your eye for arranging, keep it simple. "Try choosing flowers in a single color," says Eric Buterbaugh, chief floral designer at The Bouqs. "I think they're more sophisticated and visually powerful. You don't have to overthink it."
2. Not putting your flowers in water ASAP
Don't plop your bouquet on the counter and then go off to answer a dozen emails. "It's important to hydrate your flowers immediately to preserve their integrity," says Valerie Ghitelman, floral merchandising director at 1-800-Flowers.
3. Cutting the stems straight across
"Stems should be cut at an angle with a sharp clean pair of clippers," says Ghitelman. "It provides a wider surface for water to travel up the stem."
4. Trimming your stems too short or long
Here's a good rule of thumb: The vase should be about two-thirds the height of the total arrangement to properly support your flowers. Trim your stems accordingly.
5. Forgetting to remove the leaves
Leaves or other foliage shouldn't fall beneath the water line. Otherwise, they'll create a bacterial build-up that can prevent water from traveling up the stem to hydrate the flowers.
6. Skipping the packet that comes with your bouquet
It's there for a reason! "The packet of floral food helps maintain cleanliness," says Ghitelman.
7. Sticking your vase in a super-sunny spot
We know, you want your bouquet to live in the brightest spot in your room. But it just won't last as long the heat of direct sunlight. And the same goes for placing it too close to a heat or air-conditioning vent.
8. Arranging your blooms ... and then totally forgetting about them
"You should recut the stems and change the water every two days," says Buterbaugh.
More from Good Housekeeping:
• Make Supermarket Flowers Look Like a Million Bucks
• Get Excited About Peony Season
• 6 Ways to Make Underrated Flowers Look Amazing
