The Fix: Aspirin

In Theory: Increases the acidity of the water, helping it move up the stem.

Day 1: One 325-milligram Bayer coated tablet is dropped into the water.

Day 4: Drooping and sad, these tulips don't look as if they'll last much longer. Another tablet goes in the water.

Day 7: Yikes! More than half the petals have fallen off.

The Verdict: Painful. An aspirin a day may keep the doctor away, but not the florist.