How to Arrange Long Stem Roses

Choose a vase or flower container that is half as tall as the height of the flowers.

Place the roses on a flat surface and select one to use as a height template for the others. Lay each flower beside the template flower and grasp the stem where you will cut. Hold the stem under running water and use pruning shears to cut the stem of each flower to the same length as the template flower. Cut three or four stems approximately 2 inches taller than the other roses. These longer roses will be used for the center of the arrangement.

Cut strips of waterproof floral tape that are 1 inch wider than the mouth of the vase. Starting on one side of the vase, place a strip across the vase mouth starting about 1/4 inch from the edge. Press the edges down firmly on either side of the vase. Continue placing tape strips parallel to the first piece of tape 1/4 inch apart until reaching the opposite edge.

Place strips of floral tape perpendicular to the existing row of floral tape, again spacing at a distance of 1/4 inch.

Wrap a piece of floral tape around the entire edge of the vase to secure the other pieces of tape.

Fill the vase with warm water. The vase should be 1/2 to 3/4 full.

Use pruning shears to cut off all leaves and thorns that will be below the water line.

Place the longest rose stems into the center holes of the tape grid. The bottom of the stem should be centered on the bottom of the base.

Insert the other roses into the tape grid holes.

Place baby's breath or other greenery into the remaining holes of the floral tape.