If you use the same vase regularly, get in the habit of scrubbing it out between uses. Make sure the inside of the container is spotless. The residue left behind from previous flowers can also speed up the deterioration of your new roses.
If you’re using tap water in your vase, allow it to sit in the refrigerator overnight to give the chlorine time to dissipate before adding the roses. Water purification tablets can also help bring questionable water to a more amenable pH in a pinch. Drop in the specific number of tablets recommended in the product instructions for the amount of water you’re using and wait at least 30 minutes before adding your roses. [3] X Research source
Avoid using sugar substitutes, such as aspartame, saccharin, or stevia. Since these substances don’t break down the same way chemically, they won’t have the same effective on your roses. It’s important to remember that flowers are living things that need to eat, too, even if they’ve already been cut, stuck in a vase, and used to decorate your home.
Consider refrigerating your roses overnight, or anytime you don’t have them sitting out. Just make sure you keep them away from refrigerated produce, as the gases released by stored fruits and veggies can be bad for their longevity. [5] X Research source If you’re displaying your roses in a room that tends to be hot and stuffy, position them where they can receive some airflow, such as next to a main entrance, open window, or air conditioning vent.
Whenever possible, store produce and other fresh food items in the refrigerator. On the flipside, keeping your roses near your fruits and veggies will encourage them to bloom faster if they were cut while slightly immature.
If you absolutely insist on cutting your roses in the afternoon or evening, do it immediately after watering to give them the best chance of survival. Pass over any roses at the florist or supermarket that appear limp or droopy. There’s a good chance these flowers weren’t well-hydrated at the time they were cut. Opt for locally-grown blooms if you’re buying your roses. They’ll last longer since they’ll have been picked more recently. [8] X Expert Source Pilar ZunigaFlorist Expert Interview. 12 March 2020.
Don’t forget to add a little sugar to the new water. If necessary, top off the water level between replacements so that it reaches at least halfway up the stems.
It’s important that each cut you make be clean and precise. Handling your roses with a dull blade can mash the stems, making it harder for moisture to pass through the damaged cells. [10] X Research source Frequent trimmings alone can often help cut roses hold on for an extra week or more.
Most varieties of roses prefer a soil with a pH between 5. 5-7. You can test the pH of your soil using a home soil testing kit, which are typically available at gardening centers, greenhouses, and plant nurseries. [12] X Research source If you live somewhere with wet, soggy conditions year-round, consider mixing one-third sand or gravel into your growing soil to improve drainage.
Following the first growing season, continue feeding your roses regularly every 1-2 months. Consult with a horticultural specialist at your local gardening center or greenhouse to find out what amendments will be most beneficial for the species of roses you’re cultivating.
For a thriftier approach, try recycling garden waste like leaves, wood chips, grass clippings, or even small stones into useful mulch. Be prepared to lay down new mulch once a year in the spring, or whenever the original layer becomes thinner than about 2 inches (5. 1 cm). [14] X Research source
Keep in mind that roses in containers will dry out more rapidly than those in the ground, which means they’ll need to be watered more frequently. Roses are thirsty plants, but care should be taken not to overwater them. Excessive moisture could lead to complications like wilting, blights, or root rot that can easily kill off an otherwise healthy plant. [16] X Research source
Before you do any serious pruning, pull on a pair of elbow-length gloves to protect your hands and arms from wayward thorns. [18] X Research source Don’t hesitate to also trim any leaves, stems, or offshoots that appear unhealthy while you’re at it. It’s good practice to inspect your rose plants about twice a week during the flowering season to check for failing blooms.
Lingering moisture is an invitation to harmful bacteria and fungi. You can do your part to prevent disease by planting your roses where they can receive plenty of direct sunlight and allowing them to dry out completely between waterings. Common diseases that affect roses include blight, rust, and black spot. These ailments are often accompanied by visible symptoms such as pustules or dark spots or growths on the underside of the leaves. [20] X Trustworthy Source Missouri Botanical Garden Oldest botanical garden in the U. S. and center for botanical research and science education Go to source
Like deadheading, pruning serves to remove failing sections of the plant so that new growth can flourish. Strategic manicuring also gives you the opportunity to fine-tune the shape and appearance of your rose bushes. [22] X Research source
