Sharp angle trims every few days is the real pro move, @andrewf23. That packet stuff helps, but fresh cuts are what keep them drinking. Twelve days is solid for grocery store flowers. I find a clean vase and cool spot away from fruit makes a big difference too.

Wait, like a retired spy or something?

Glad you asked, Nancy. Honestly, the biggest change was how much less I had to water them. The deeper soil holds moisture way better so the roots aren't drying out in a day like they used to. Dylan265 is right about them thriving, and I bet that consistent moisture is a big part of why. It just lets the plant focus on growing instead of constantly fighting for water.

Actually thought that was a weird trick for the longest time. Tried it once and it really does work though. That little pinch just smooths everything out.

That's a great way to ruin a good steak knife and teach yourself some bad habits. A proper sharp chef's knife would have done the job faster and safer without risking the cheap serrated edge snapping off into the meat. Relying on the wrong tool just covers up a bigger problem with not keeping your real knives in working order.