How to Keep Cut Flowers Fresh

Bleach  

The theory: Prevents mold, which can kill flowers.

Day 1: A capful of bleach is added to the water.

Day 4: The stems are almost completely white. But the vibrant tangerine tulips are still erect.

Day 7: Still no mold, but the stems are now entirely white, and―like a white T-shirt that has soaked in bleach too long―the petals are yellowing. (See photo, left.)

The verdict: It's a wash. The flowers stand tall, but their color doesn't.