How to Care for Fresh Cut Roses

Fresh cut roses can make for a stunning display in a vase.

Part of the enjoyment of growing roses in your yard is that you can bring some of that beauty inside for everyone to enjoy. When cutting roses for display in a vase, cut the stems 5 to 10 inches long and cut immediately above a five-leaflet node for the best future growth. Be careful to not cut too many stems early in the season, which could adversely affect the display later in the season.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors or sharp knife
• Pail
• Flower food
• Large vase

Instructions

1. Place the fresh cut roses immediately in a pail of warm water as you cut them.

2. Dissolve a packet of flower food in a vase of warm water. Make sure your vase is large enough to prevent crowding of the roses.

3. Fill your sink with a few inches of warm water.

4. Hold the bottom of the rose stems underneath the water. With a sharp knife or scissors, cut about 2 inches off the bottom of the rose stems at a diagonal angle. Be sure the rose stems stay under water at all times during the cutting.

5. Hold the stems under water for several minutes to allow the roses to drink the water. If the roses drink in air it could cause them to wilt.

6. Put the roses into the vase as quickly as possible. Remove any dead or wilted foliage.

References

• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Growing Roses
• New Mexico State University: Growing Roses