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1. Remove any leaves that may be under water.
2. While holding the stems under water in a sink or
under running water, cut about one inch off each
stem with a sharp knife or shears. DO NOT let the
newly cut end dry off before transferring it back to
your arrangement or other container.
3. Water to which a good floral preservative has
been added is the best solution in which to arrange
fresh cut roses. Using it as recommended will
provide additional days of vase life. Avoid using
water from a water softener. If no floral
preservative is available the following can be used;
1 can of 7up or sprite to 1 liter of water, 1
tablespoon of sugar added to water or a splash of
hydrogen peroxide.
4. Immediately after the stems are cut, place your
roses in a deep vase of warm preservative solution
(about 100 degrees F). If possible leave them in a
cool dark room or refrigerator to 'condition' for 2
or 3 hours after arranging.
5. If a florist's porous foam material is used in
assembling the arrangement, it is important that it
is thoroughly saturated in advance in water
containing a floral preservative. Be sure that the
rose stems are inserted firmly well below the
solution level in the container. Do not move the
stem ends after inserting them into the foam. This
may leave an air pocket at the base of the stem.
6. Display your fresh cut rose arrangements in a
cool area out of direct sunlight and drafts.
7. Roses are thirsty flowers. It is important to
check to see that the vase is full and add
preservative solution often. Be sure foam materials
are completely saturated and the container is full
daily.
8. Any lilies received should have the pollen
stamens removed as they open. This will enhance the
life of the lily and prevent any staining from the
pollen.
** Premature wilting is not a sign that the rose is
old. It usually indicates that air is entrapped in
the stem and the preservative solution cannot flow
properly up the stem. The end of the stem may be
blocked, or look for a cut or scrape in the bark
above the water level. Recut the stem above the
injured section and then submerge the entire rose in
a basin or shallow pan of warm water (about 100
degrees F). Be sure to keep the stem and head
straight. It will usually revive within an hour and
can be replaced in the arrangement.
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