How Tos
How to Cut Roses for a Vase
Your florist probably doesn’t want you to know the secrets to the perfect arrangement, but we’re sharing them anyway. Here are the best ways to cut roses for a vase that’ll keep them fresher, prettier and more sweetly-scented for longer.
For the Perfect Hand-Picked Rose Bouquet . . .
- The sharpness of the shears you use to cut your roses is crucial. Duller shears or pruners will constrict the stem's water intake, while sharper blades will preserve it.
- Choose roses from the front of a rose bush – not the back! Back-of-the-bush stems get less sunlight and won't last as long once cut.
- Prepare a clean vase with fresh water before picking the roses. You'll want to have it ready as soon as possible once the roses are cut; every second counts after cutting!
- Once you have the stems in the vase, hold them submerged in water and cut them again. This prevents air bubbles from blocking stems' water intake.
More Rose-Cutting Tips:
- Roses hold the most water in the early mornings, which are thus the best time to cut them.
- Pick roses that aren’t fully bloomed yet. Full blooms won’t last as long in a vase.
- Cut at an angle, which gives the stem a cleaner, smoother surface and makes it harder for bacteria to breed.
To reiterate: an important step in cutting roses is the quality of the blade. Use a pair of shears instead of scissors. The sharper the blade, the more precise the cut will be.
Whether you're preparing a bouquet for a special occasion or just want to boost your home decor with a pop of freshness, you can't go wrong with roses! Hand-picking adds a special tenderness. Choose the petals and blooms that make you smile the most; when your personality shines through, your space will come to life.
— More Great Articles —
Read the Latest
Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.
