How To Keep Flowers Fresh Longer Using 7-Up

We love receiving fresh bouquets of flowers. (Who doesn’t?) But it’s always such a drag when they wither away sooner than you’d like. That’s why we’re always looking for ways to keep blooms fresh. We've heard that soda like 7-Up and Sprite can actually do the trick -- but is it true? The staff at Scientific American consulted with the experts to find out it this was a great fact or silly fiction.

And the verdict is in! "The 7-Up formula works really well," said Susan Han, a professor in the plant, soil and insect science department at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

But there is a special formula that has to be followed, says the professor. Han recommended a three-to-one ratio of water to soda and just a few drops of bleach to prevent bacteria from forming.

Well, there you have it. Add a little sugar to keep your flowers smelling sweet. Be sure to head over to Scientific American to learn more on keeping your flowers fresh.

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