- 1). Dilute bleach according to the label's instructions for general cleaning. Wash the vase with soap and the diluted bleach. This removes bacteria, which can shorten the life of cut flowers. Dry the vase with a clean towel or allow it to air dry.
- 2). Fill the vase partway with warm water, unless your cut flowers are bulb flowers. Flowers that grew from a bulb, such as tulips, should be placed in cold water.
- 3). Remove any leaves that will be underwater. Do not remove leaves that will be above water.
- 4). Place the stems of the cut flowers underneath running water and cut off about an inch of the stem at a 45-degree angle using garden shears or a sharp knife. Immediately place the flowers in the vase.
- 5). Add a floral preservative according to the package directions.
- 6). Place the vase in a cool location for at least an hour. The combination of warm water and cool air helps the flowers absorb water. After an hour, store the flowers anywhere away from air drafts and heat.
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