How to Keep Cut Roses Alive Longer in Vases

You hope to maximize the lives of your own cut roses in a vase on your mantel or cherish the bouquet from a loved one for as long as you can. While most cut flowers generally last a few days there are steps you can take to extend the lives of the roses for up to a week. Keeping cut roses alive for as long as possible requires providing them with a spotlessly clean environment, plenty of water, and a cool place away from bright harsh sunlight.

Vase
Liquid dish detergent
Bleach
Pruning shears, very sharp scissors or knife
Lukewarm water
Floral preservative

Instructions

- 1
  Wash your vase in hot soapy water, making sure to scrub the insides to remove any built-up residues. Alternatively, run your vase through the dishwasher. Rinse with clear, hot water.
- 2
  Soak vase for a few minutes in a solution made by combining 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water. Wipe your cutting blades with some of this solution.
- 3
  Fill the clean vase with a solution made of 1/2 tsp. pf bleach for every pint (16 ounces) of water.
- 4
  Take roses from their packaging or temporary container. Place them on a counter or other work surface.
- 5
  Trim off any leaves that will be below the vase's water level.
- 6
  Cut the stems at an angle at a point that is roughly 3/4 inch from the end. Immediately place them in the vase.
- 7
  Change the water in the vase every day. Replenish it with bleach at the rate of 1/2 tsp. to 16 ounces of water.
- 8
  Place the vase of roses in a cooler spot at night or in the refrigerator.

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