The only downside to cut flowers is the certainly that a week or so after you popped them into the vase, youâll be throwing them out. So whether you fork out the cash or cut flowers from your own garden, the incentive is the same â making them last longer. Hereâs how⦠1. Start fresh: Just like fish, itâs best to get hold of the freshest possible. So when youâre shopping, look for half open buds and fresh green foliage. Avoid anything that looks limp or has brown tips. If youâre picking from your own garden, go out early in the morning with a bucket of water in one hand and a sharp pair of scissors or pruners in the other, and as you cut the stems pop them straight into the bucket. Then keep your bucket of flowers â bought or home picked â indoors in a cool spot for an hour or so before you start arranging them. This sounds pointless but it will add a few days to their longevity.