Flowers are one of those things that I love but don’t buy as often as I’d like. When I do, I always think, “I really need to do this at least once a month.” It’s the same thought that runs through my mind after getting an aromatherapy massage. While scheduling a massage isn’t something I typically do to kick of Spring, buying tulips, however, is what I do…always.

In between my shopping errands yesterday, I picked up a freshly cut bouquet of tulips from my local supermarket. Adorning the vase with a pastel chevron bow helped make the look complete. Total cost? Just $8.99 (tulips were $6.99 & spool of ribbon was $2.00). A tiny cost for days of enjoyment. SpringtulipsApril Unfortunately, tulips aren’t known to be long-lasting flowers but with proper care, they can sometimes last up to 10 days.

Here are some tips on how to prep tulips and to prolong their “vase” life:

1) Using a sharp knife, trim off any white part of stem to allow better water absorption.

2) Place tulips in a vase filled with clean water and fresh flower food (see homemade recipe below).

3) Remove any foliage from stem that is submerged in water. This avoids mold and bacteria.

4) Re-cut approximately 1 inch of the flower stems every 3 – 4 days.

Note: Make sure to check the water in the vase often. Plenty of fresh water is key to prolonging a tulip’s life.

Homemade Flower Food Recipe using Sugar & Vinegar

Mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar and 2 tablespoons of sugar into 1 quart of water. This recipe will feed the flowers and also curb down the growth of bacteria.

Since it’s Friday (rain or shine), why don’t you go ahead and buy some flowers to celebrate the upcoming weekend. May I suggest fresh cut tulips? šŸ™‚