The Fix: A Penny

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

Day 1: A penny is added to the water.

Day 4: The flowers open and look a little droopy, but the dark tangerine color is still strong.

Day 7: The stems are heading in every possible direction, but the blooms have opened up in a fairly regular pattern.

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