Pollen season is officially here. So if you are a flower lover, it’s your time to shine.

Fresh flowers can brighten up any space, and with a few simple habits they will stay that way for much longer.

According to Flowers.ie – site with florists, start by trimming the stems at a 45-degree angle and placing them in a clean vase with room-temperature water and flower food. From there, it’s all about keeping things clean, fresh, and in the right spot.

Here are other steps to remember:

Essential care steps

Clean the vase

Wash the vase thoroughly with hot, soapy water before you add anything. Bacteria is what makes water go cloudy fast, so starting with a clean vessel gives your flowers a better chance.

Trim the stems

Cut about an inch off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle every two to three days. The angled cut helps them take up water more easily, and doing it regularly keeps the ends from sealing up.

Remove submerged leaves

Strip away any leaves that sit below the waterline. Leaves in the water rot quickly and that speeds up bacterial growth.

Change the water

Replace the vase water and add fresh flower food every 48 to 72 hours. Fresh water keeps bacteria down and gives the flowers the nutrients they need to stay perky.

Best placement

Avoid heat and sun

Keep your bouquet away from direct sunlight, radiators, appliances, and warm air vents. Heat makes flowers drink faster and wilt sooner.

Stay away from fruit

Do not place flowers near fruit bowls with bananas, apples, or grapes. Ripening fruit releases ethylene gas, and that gas speeds up wilting.

Related story: Spring On The Way: 5 Things To Keep In Mind