A bouquet of roses is a
beautiful, fragrant addition to any room. To achieve the best
results from fresh-cut roses, follow these
steps:
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Remove leaves that may decay under water. When removing
leaves and thorns, do not cut through the green bark. Air can
enter the water-conducting passages through the injuries and
restrict water uptake. Bacteria in the water can clog
stems.
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While holding the stems under water or running water,
cut about one inch off each stem with a sharp knife or shears.
Do not let the newly cut end dry off before transferring it to
the arrangement or other container.
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Water in which a good floral preservative has been
added is the best solution in which to arrange fresh-cut
roses. Florists can provide small packages of floral
preservative. Use it as recommended to provide additional days
of vase life. Do not use stronger solution than the
manufacturer's recommendation. Avoid using water from a water
softener.
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Immediately after the stems are cut, place roses in a
deep vase of warm preservative solution (about 100 degrees
Fahrenheit). If possible, leave the flowers in a cool, dark
room or refrigerator to "condition" for two-three hours before
arranging.
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If a florist's porous foam material is used in
assembling the arrangement, it is important that it is
thoroughly saturated in advance in water containing a floral
preservative. Use a vase large enough to keep the entire block
of foam submerged. Be sure that the rose stems are inserted
firmly, well below the solution level in the
container.
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Roses are thirsty flowers. It is most important to
check to see that the vase is full and add preservative
solution often. Be sure foam materials are completely
saturated and the container is full
daily.
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Display fresh cut rose arrangement in a cool area out
of direct sunlight and drafts.
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Premature wilting is not necessarily a sign that the
rose is old. It usually indicates that air is trapped in the
stem and the preservative solution cannot flow properly up the
stem. The end of the stem may be blocked. Look for a cut or
scrape in the bark above the water level. Re-cut the stem
above the injured section under water and then submerge the
entire rose in a basin or shallow pan of warm water (about 100
degrees Fahrenheit). Be sure to keep the stem and head
straight. A rose will usually revive within an hour and can be
placed within the
arrangement.
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