Tips for Keeping Cut Roses Fresh

Fill Your Home with Fresh Cut Roses

A well placed arrangement of fresh cut roses adds beauty and elegance to any space.  Unfortunately for us arrangements will not stay fresh forever, but there are steps we can take to lengthen the time we have to enjoy fresh cut roses.  

Cut Roses in the Morning

Cutting roses in the middle of the day will cause them to wither much faster.  Plus, it is more pleasant to cut roses in morning than in the blazing midday sun.

Take Warm Water to the Garden

Cutting a rose from the bush will remove it from its source of food and water as well as open it up to air which causes the rose to deteriorate.  Placing freshly cut stems in water as quickly as possible will prevent air bubbles from moving up the stem and will keep the roses hydrated.

Cut at a 5 Leaflet

Encourage healthy growth by cutting above a five leaflet at a 45° angle.  Cutting an outward facing five leaflet encourages new growth away from the center of the bush.  Cutting at a 45° angle allows water to roll off the cane preventing bacteria and fungus from collecting on the cane.

Remove Leaves and Thorns

Decomposing foliage encourages bacteria growth in the water which shortens the lifespan of your cut roses.  Leave foliage at the top of the stem and remove any leaves that will be below the waterline in your vase. 

Use a Sanitized Vase and Add a Floral Preservative

Using a vase without sanitizing it first introduces old bacteria to the fresh roses shortening their lifespan.  When making an arrangement, start with a clean vase and add a floral preservative which inhibits bacteria growth, feeds the stem, and acidifies the water.

Change the Water

Every two days, empty the old water and refill the vase with clean water and more floral preservative.  This will keep the bacteria levels down and keep the roses fresher longer.

Let the fragrance of fresh cut roses fill your home all season long by following these simple steps.