Does stem length affect a cut flowers life?
Shortening the stem should not affect the flower’s staying power and with some, especially roses, having enough stem to allow removing an inch every couple days to expose “fresh” cells to uptake water can add days of life. As Sugarlov stated, the cold may have been the culprit, but also, the daffs may be nearing the end of their natural bloom which would also explain them being short-lived. I have managed to extend the bloom of daffs and tulips around my yard by about 2-3 weeks most years by planting many types of each and I think more importantly, by setting individual bulb “clumps” at different depths ranging from slightly above the recommended depth to 2-6″ deeper. Occasionally doesn’t pan and some bulbs rot, out but I think having fresh cut flowers around another week or two is worth the attempt!
