How to Remove Rose Guard Petals

Roses that have the guard petals intact open more fully.

The guard petals on roses are the outer petals that protect the inner bud. These petals are often wilted or have charred edges and need to be removed to reveal the fresh flower underneath. Florists remove these outer petals if the roses are going to be used the same day. Some florists will leave guard petals on the roses to protect the buds during transit so the roses will be fresh upon arrival. The guard petals should be removed the same day the roses will be used.

Things You'll Need

• Roses
• Sharp knife or scissors
• Vase

Instructions

1. Cut the stems of your roses under running water at an angle with a sharp knife or scissors. Set the roses in a vase of clean, lukewarm water to keep them fresh until you are ready to remove their guard petals.

2. Remove the guard petals. Hold a rose in one hand. Place your other hand's pointer finger and thumb gently around the outer base of an outer petal. Pull up and outward on the petal, being careful not to disturb the other petals. Set the removed petal aside.

3. Check the rose for freshness. Listen for a snap or crunch when the petal is removed; this lets you know the rose is fresh. Look at the base of the removed petal. It should be white or cream-colored if the rose is fresh.

4. Place your pointer finger and thumb around the outer base of another guard petal. Pull the petal up and outward to remove it from the rose. Continue to remove the rest of the petals that create the outer layer. Stop removing petals when the outer layer of petals is removed, leaving fresh-looking, crisp-colored petals behind.

5. Set the rose back into the vase of water.

References

• "Flower Style"; Pat Ross; 2002
• Le Fiores: Guardian Petals
• Esmeralda: Care & Handling Flower Facts