Flowers sent by post or delivered by courier will often come with instructions on how to make them last longer in a vase.

Tips to make flowers last longer

Flower stalks should be cut cleanly, do not crush or damage the flower stalks.
Remove foliage from the stalks of flowers that will be placed in the water.
Cut flowers and fruit bowls should not be placed in close proximity, ripening fruit gives of a gas that shortens the life of cut flowers.
Metal containers should not be used for cut flowers, especially if you are adding flower preservative to the water.

Fresh flowers need fresh water, try to change the water in the vase every second day.
Flower preservative is excellent to help prolong the life of cut flowers, florists often supply this with flowers.

Other tricks to help prolong flower life if you do not have access to flower preservative include :
Adding a little sugar to the water
Adding a little bleach to the water