How to Keep Roses Living Longer

Cut 1 inch off the bottom of the stems. Hold the stems under warm running water and make the cut at an angle.

Put the cut roses in a clean vase. Fill it three-quarters full with lukewarm water. Place the roses in water as soon as possible.

Put flower food in the water according to the package instructions. If you don't have flower food, make your own by adding 3 tsp. lemon-lime soda (not diet) and 1 tsp. bleach for every quart of warm water.

Pinch off any dead foliage from the roses and any foliage that falls below the water line. Foliage that sits in the water causes bacteria to grow and decreases the lifespan of the roses.

Cut the stems, change the water and add more flower food every three days. Clean the vase with hot water before filling the vase and putting the roses back in. Add more warm water daily, or as needed, so the vase stays three-quarters full.

Remove dead foliage as it pops up. Pinch off any discolored or loose petals as well.

Set the vase in a cool spot that is away from drafts, direct heat sources, extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. Keep the roses away from ripening fruit, which lets off a gas that can shorten their lifespan.