A drop of bleach?

Find out which technique helps flowers look fresher longer.

But when stems droop and buds wither, you may wonder if the indulgence was worth it.

Flowers bunch with pink blooming orchids and green leaves in glass vase at blue background. Beautiful modern flower bouquet

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As the week progressed, the water level was kept constant.

Here’s how they fared.

The Verdict:Painful.

An aspirin a day may keep the doctor away, but not the florist.

Listerine Antiseptic

The Theory:Kills bacteria the way it kills plaque and halitosis.

The Verdict:Not much to smile about.

A Penny

The Theory:The copper can act as a natural antibacterial agent.

The Verdict:The flowers were slow to bloom, bloomed beautifully, then withered quickly.

Bleach

The Theory:Prevents mold, which can kill flowers.

The Verdict:It’s a wash.

The flowers stand tall, but their color doesn’t.

Fresh Water

The Theory:Clean water will contain fewer bacteria.

The Verdict:Opened beautifully, but the petals dropped like flies after Day 4.

Sugar

The Theory:Sugar duplicates the sugar rush that occurs during photosynthesis.

It can, however, promote bacterial growth.

The Verdict:Uneven blooming and splayed stems, but the flowers are mostly intact.

The Verdict:The winner of the bunch!

Flower food is available at florist shops, oryou can make your own.

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