How to Keep a Dozen Red Roses Fresh

To make that special and romantic gift last as long as possible, follow these guidelines.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Floral Preservatives
• A Dozen Red Roses
• Pruning Shears
• Vases
• Knife

1. Store the roses in a cool place - ideally a refrigerator - if you can't get them into water immediately. A cool environment will help to slow the deterioration process.

2. Fill a vase with warm or tepid water. Make sure it's no cooler than room temperature. Warm water will be absorbed more quickly.

3. Add floral preservatives to the water if you have some available. Follow the package instructions.

4. Cut off any foliage that will lie below the waterline (it will rot), as well as any torn leaves.

5. Cut off about 1 inch of the stems, either straight across or at a slant, using a knife rather than scissors. Do this while the stem is submerged in a basin of warm or tepid water.

6. Place the roses in water immediately after cutting them.

7. Change the water and recut the stems daily, taking extra care to remove any leaves that may have wilted or dipped into the water. This will help prevent bacteria buildup. If you're using preservatives, add more solution every other day.

8. Keep the flowers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heaters, air conditioners and drafts. At night, move your roses to the coolest part of the house. This will help them last longer.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many other factors that go into the duration of a cut rose, including rose type, gardening methods and climate; however, following these steps will allow you to keep your roses fresh for as long as possible.

• You can make your own floral preservative using a citrus-based soft drink. Add one part soft drink for every three parts water.