Using a preservative increases the longevity of your cut flowers. For flowers to survive they need three ingredients: carbohydrates for cell metabolism, a biocide to fight bacteria , and an acidifier to change the water’s pH and increase their water uptake.  This homemade mix provides them with what they need and it can be as effective as a commercial preservative, plus it’s easy to make and cost less.  

• 1 quart lukewarm water ( warm water delivers “food” to the flowers faster)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon household bleach
• 2 teaspoons lemon or lime juice

Stir thoroughly before using.