To make the most of your cutting-garden flower arrangements:
1. Trim the stems with gardening shears at a 45-degree angle so the flowers can take in more water.
2. For woody branches such as lilacs, cut an asterisk in the base or crush the last few inches of the branch with a hammer or mallet.
3. Be sure to strip leaves that would otherwise sit below the waterline.
4. Fill the vase with lukewarm water, and add a generous pinch of oxygen bleach.
5. Arrange the bouquet, and set it in a cool spot out of direct sunlight.
6. Every couple of days, change the water, and re-clip the stems.