Martha Stewart has made sure that our flowers and floral gifts are freshly-picked when you receive them—even cut stems and boughs are alive. As soon as they arrive, it's important to feed and water them to protect their beautiful presence. By using these simple techniques, you'll keep your flowers looking fresh and lovely for longer than you might expect. Whether they come fresh from the florist, or shipped direct from the farm, you're sure to discover the many pleasures of flowers.
Tulips (Blooms that Bow)
Change the water daily and give them the room they need to open, close, arch and lean. Embrace their ability to "stretch” by placing a cluster in a vase that allows them to spread out. Be sure the vase is tall enough to give them support about halfway up the stem.
Roses (Cutting Stems)
Your roses may arrive with long stems, but don't be afraid to cut them short to create a domed arrangement. Reducing a rose's stem length shifts the focus to the blossom itself.
Irises (Straight Stems)
When your irises arrive, some blooms will be partially opened and some will be closed, waiting to bloom. Condition them as noted; allowing them to drink water, and you will be rewarded with a lovely scent from the opening blooms. Strong straight stems will work in long cylindrical vases, or cut short with petals dripping over the rim of small pails or urns.
Daisies (Supporting Stems)
It's easy to keep these stems upright by supporting them with chicken wire or floral tape. Set wire or attach tape in a grid pattern across the top of the vase and place stems through the holes of the wire or tape grid.
Lilies (Give Them Room to Bloom)
Arrange the lilies stem by stem by turning the bouquet and facing the open flowers out. Open blooms will need plenty of space so bind the stems together near the base and top with a clear rubber band or raffia to keep them in place. Note: Lily pollen can stain clothing and furniture. To avoid staining, carefully remove the lily's anthers (orange pollen-coated tips at the end of the stamens) with a tissue and discard with care.
Calla Lilies (Twisting Stems)
The stems of the calla lilies make them ideal for twisting. First, build the flowers into a large bunch that will fit snugly in the vase. Trim ends to the same length. Grab stems and twist in the opposite direction. Holding the spiraled stems in position, carefully work the bouquet into a clear vase. Clear rubber bands will help to keep the twisted stems in place. Note: Cut each stem at an angle with a sharp knife or scissors. Place in water immediately. Calla lilies bruise easily so handle with care.
Bouquets
Cut flowers and bouquets are some of Martha's favorite flowers but they share a need for food and water. When they arrive, each stem will need to be re-cut and preferably underwater at a 45° angle—shorn of leaves, and soaked in a vase filled with cool water. Add the flower food packet to the water and place away from drafts or excessive heat so you can enjoy their blooms for many days. Refresh every 2 to 3 days. Re-cut stems and change water. Add flower food that is provided with your floral delivery.
Make someone feel warm and fuzzy today: 
