GH Institute Tests: Mail-Order Roses

With St. Valentine's Day in mind, the Good Housekeeping Institute ordered 10 bouquets from leading florists who deliver nationwide. A consumer panel evaluated the roses for appearance, and then for the next few days, the Institute chemists monitored the flowers in a chamber with a constant temperature of 70 degrees (the typical temperature in someone's house) and a humidity level typical of a winter home. Here, the best of the bunch:

Same Day Flowers. This bouquet won for its fresh-looking buds. Unfortunately, while the roses look great at first, most of them had wilted or died within three days. $64.95, 800-937-7645 or www.samedayflowers.com

Coast to Coast Flowers. This bouquet lasted the longest. Even after six days, none of the 12 roses had lost their bloom. $69.95, 888-269-5297 or www.coasttocoastflorist.com

Flower Bud. With 25 flowers direct from the grower and arriving with a handsome vase, this bouquet won for "pure drama." $107, 877-524-5400 or www.flowerbud.com