Step1
The best time to cut flowers and foliage is in the early morning. If you can, try to make your cuttings when the dew is still on the blossoms. When flowers are cut in the morning they are fully rested and revived from the previous day. If you cannot get into your garden in the early morning, the next best time to cut your flowers is around sunset, or late evening.
Step2
The worst time to cut flowers and foliage is between midmorning and late afternoon. Flowers are most stressed during this time because of the heat of the sun. The heat has caused much of the moisture from the foliage and blossoms to evaporate and flowers are at their most fragile during these hours.
Step3
To cut flower stems all you need is a sharp knife or a pair of sharp scissors. To cut thick, woody stalks you will need either pruning shears or sharp clippers. You should use the appropriate tools. If you do not, you can bruise, tear and damage the stems. This can make it difficult for your cuttings to absorb water later.
Step4
In addition to cutting tools, you will also need to carry along a pail of air temperature water. Once you have cut your flowers and foliage you should place their stems into the water. This will hold them over until you are finished with your cuttings and you go inside to precondition them.
Step5
It is important that you do not pack your pail full of flowers. If you plan to make a lot of cuttings you should have two or three pails of water on hand. This will ensure that your flowers are not overly crowded which could cause damage.
Step6
Choose flowers when they are in their proper blooming cycle. This is generally when flowers blossoms are still buds. You would never want to cut a flower that has already fully bloomed. It will not last and the petals will fall off soon. It is a waste of time and your flower arrangement will not last more than a day or so.
Step7
You should never break or pull stems by hand. When you make your cut, make it at a 45 degree angle. This will expose a larger area of the stem to the water in the pail. You should never make straight across cuts. If you do, the stems will rest flat on the bottom of their containers and be unable to absorb water as they should.
Step8
Special Instructions for Cutting Roses
You should cut roses when their second petals start to unfurl. Make your cutting along the stem above a five or seven leaf pattern instead of a three leaf pattern.
Step9
Special Instructions for Cutting Tulips
You can cut tulips at anytime between their bud stages until they are half open. When you are cutting, try to leave as much foliage behind as possible. This will ensure that the bulb can still mature.
Novice 
