Does putting bleach in water for flowers make them last longer?

Question

I read that when putting flowers in a vase, a dash of bleach in the water can actually help the plants live longer. Is this true?

Answer 1

It does keep down bacterial growth in the water. Bacteria does cause cut flowers to have a shorter life. I usually just change the water daily & give the flowers a new cut every day or so. If you do use bleach just a few drops should be fine, any more & you could kill the flowers off.

Answer 2

I don't know but that sounds terrible.  I've heard that mixing sugar in the water has the same effect though.

Answer 3

No but you can put an aspirin into the water and that will help them last longer.

Answer 4

I heard a asprin, bleach sounds harsh ouch

Answer 5

Yes.  Don't put more than 3 or 4 drops in the vase at a time.  The bleach slows down the bacteria growth.  If you also change the water every 2 days you have have flowers that last 10 days instead of 4.  Enjoy!