Bringing fresh-cut roses inside to enjoy in a vase is one of the best parts of growing roses. However, cutting flowers the wrong way can weaken the plant and reduce future blooms. Learning the right techniques ensures that roses can be enjoyed both in the garden and indoors without causing damage.
The best time to cut roses is early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. This helps keep the flowers fresh and prevents wilting. Using sharp, clean pruning shears is important to make clean cuts that heal quickly and prevent disease from spreading.
When cutting roses, it’s best to select flowers that are just beginning to open. Roses that are too tight may not open fully once cut, while those that are fully open will fade more quickly in a vase. Cutting just above a set of five healthy leaves encourages the plant to produce more flowers instead of wasting energy on an empty stem.
After cutting, immediately placing the roses in a bucket of lukewarm water helps keep them fresh. Trimming the stems at an angle underwater prevents air bubbles from blocking water uptake. Removing leaves below the waterline prevents bacteria growth and keeps the bouquet looking fresh for longer.
Changing the vase water daily and adding a homemade flower preservative—such as a mix of sugar, vinegar, and a few drops of bleach—can help cut roses last longer. Keeping the bouquet away from direct sunlight and drafts also helps preserve the flowers.
By cutting roses properly and caring for them in a vase, gardeners can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting blooms indoors while keeping their rose bushes healthy and productive outside.