How to Make Cut Roses Last Longer

Roses are an incredibly popular choice when it comes to flower giving. Roses are furthermore one of the most stunning looking blossoms and a large amount of roses release extremely pleasurable scents when you are near them. As with all cut flowers, the length of time roses last once they are cut can be very short, if they are not properly taken care of. If you grow and cut your own roses, they will last longer; but even if you receive roses from someone or buy them yourself, you can make cut roses last longer by following the suggestions detailed below in the steps.

1. Select the best roses the night before. If you grow your own roses, water them the night before you plan to cut them and make note of any of the roses that are ready to be cut. Select rose buds between one-third and one-half open.

2. Prepare for cutting the roses. Make certain you have a clean vase. It is very important to properly wash the flower vase in between uses and not just rinse it out. Also have clean and very sharp clippers for cutting them. You can use water and a very small amount of bleach for cleaning, but be sure to rinse (or wipe) them thoroughly. Be sure to purchase rose preservative powder that is available from your local nursery, flower shop or online. This little miracle powder does wonders. You should also only use soft water or distilled water for your roses. Most water from the faucet is not the best choice for your roses.

3. Cut (or re-cut) your roses. If you bought or received flowers, you can re-cut them as described here once you have them home. There is a big debate about the better time to cut your own roses, whether it is early in the morning or late afternoon, so this decision is up to you. Cut the roses just above a five-leafed branch. Cut all of the stems except the very top ones and place them in a bucket with water.

4. Ready the roses for display. Fill a large container with very warm water and re-cut the stems (while holding them underwater) approximately ¼ inch. You can add some rose preservative and a little bleach to this water. Let the roses stand in the water (stems only) until it reaches room temperature. Fill the vase with warm water, rose preservative and a few drops of bleach. Add the roses to the vase and display them out of sunlight and away from heat sources. If possible, place them in a refrigerator overnight.