Simple care extends the life of cut roses

Red roses are for love ... what better gift for Valentine's Day? A few stelps will help you get the most out of these beauties.

As soon as you receive roses - an this goes for most cut flowers - cut 1 inch off the bottom of the stem. Remove any low leaves that might be immersed in water. Add tepid water and the packet of flower food most florists provide. Gently arrange the roses in the vase to show each one to its best advantage.

Keep roses as cool as possible, and out of direct sunlight. Every other day, cut another inch of the bottom of the stems and refresh the water. Fresh roses that are well-tended will last seven to 10 days.

And for a little extra something, sprigs of baby's breath best set off the beauty of roses.