Cutting Roses
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When cutting roses choose those with a thickness, a firmness of petal and ones that are no more than 2/3 open.
When cutting, try and leave at least two levels of leaves on the stem that remains. The new growth that produces the next rose, will come from the angle between the top leaf joint and the stem. Also remember to cut on a slant about 1/4 inch above the next leaf joint.
The slant cut helps the newly cut stem to suck up the water easier. Greater surface area of course. Horizontal cuts could mean a chance of the stem sitting on the bottom of the vase and cutting off the water from being absorbed upwards. Water would be restricted in this case, so always cut on a slant.
Cut in the late afternoon when sugar levels are highest or very early morning after the night time moisture maximums.
Take the warm water to the rose and submerge the stem within ten seconds of cutting. Bring in your container of cut roses and recut the stems, under water in the vase.
The display vase should contain some form of flower preservative to delay bacteria formation and provide food. Follow the instructions on the packet, and make sure to remove all foliage below the water line.
Cut roses should be hardened off. I leave mine in the vase with the preservative in a cool dark place, like a garage, for 24 hours. This adds to the 'shelf' life by a couple of days. Incidentally, limp roses can be better revived with hot tap water in the vase. They will however mature a little quicker.
Check the water in the vase daily as a bunch of freshly cut roses will absorb as much as 1/4 of a vase of water a day. Roses in preservative fluid should last 8 to 14 days on average if kept in a cool location, away from direct sunlight and heat.
Don't put your vase on top of an appliance, T.V., Stereo or over a heat register or hot air outlet.
Cutting roses correctly means longer life and better, brighter displays. Not difficult but easily misunderstood. Cut them correctly and they will last a whole lot longer!
Dig Around: Check Out WATER CRYSTALS
* They provide the moisture control that growing plants need.
* They will preserve cut flowers longer than tap water and will help nurture fuller,healthier plants, fruits, vegetables and lawns by providing a water supply near plant roots.
* They'll absorb and store water before it percolates or evaporates,reducing watering frequency.
* They are also used to make neck coolers, cool ties,pads and hot/cold packs !
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