Roses can quickly wilt and droop if not cared for properly. To help your cut roses stay fresh and beautiful for as long as possible, try these simple yet effective tips.

1. Prepare the Vase Properly

The two key factors in keeping cut roses fresh are preventing bacterial growth and ensuring optimal water absorption. Start with a clean vase—any residue from previous flower arrangements can harbor bacteria. Wash the vase thoroughly with soap and water to eliminate any lingering contaminants.

2. Trim the Stems Correctly

Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle rather than straight across. The angled cut increases the surface area for water absorption, helping the roses stay hydrated longer. Use sharp, clean pruning shears or kitchen scissors for a precise cut.

Remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline in the vase, as submerged foliage can encourage bacterial growth and cause flowers to wilt faster. However, avoid removing the thorns—while leaves decompose in water, thorns do not. Additionally, cutting the thorns may create small wounds on the stems, increasing the risk of bacterial infection.

3. Use Room Temperature Water and Add Flower Food

Fill the vase with room temperature water, as water that is too hot or too cold can shock the flowers. Most store-bought bouquets come with a packet of flower food, which should be added to the water.

These flower food packets typically contain:

• Sugar (to nourish the blooms)
• Citric acid (to lower the pH and slow bacterial growth)
• A mild disinfectant (such as bleach, to keep the water clear)

If you don’t have flower food, try adding a small amount of mouthwash to the water to help reduce bacteria.

4. Store Roses in the Fridge Overnight

A lesser-known trick to prolong the freshness of roses is placing the entire vase in the refrigerator overnight. The cool air slows down the aging process of the petals. Just ensure the temperature stays above freezing to avoid damage.

5. Change the Water Regularly

Refresh the water completely every 2–3 days, or sooner if it appears cloudy. Each time you change the water, trim the stems slightly to ensure they continue to absorb moisture effectively. Add a new packet of flower food to maintain freshness.

6. Keep Roses Away from Direct Sunlight and Heat Sources

While roses thrive in sunlight when they’re still growing, cut flowers should be kept out of direct sunlight to prevent premature wilting. Avoid placing the vase near windows in winter (cold drafts can damage delicate petals) or close to air vents (hot or cold air can dry out the flowers).

7. Keep Roses Away from Apples and Bananas

Fruits like apples and bananas release ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening—and, unfortunately, also causes flowers to wilt more quickly. Keep your vase away from fruit bowls to maximize the longevity of your roses.

If any roses in the bouquet start to wilt, remove them immediately to prevent ethylene gas from affecting the remaining flowers.

Do Aspirin, Vodka, or Pennies Work?

You may have heard of tricks like crushing aspirin, adding vodka, or dropping a penny into the vase to extend the life of cut flowers. While these methods don’t necessarily harm the roses, there’s little scientific evidence proving their effectiveness. The most important factors remain:
✔ A clean vase
✔ Properly trimmed stems
✔ Fresh water with flower food
✔ Regular water changes

How Long Can Cut Roses Last?

Typically, cut roses last about a week in water, but with proper care, they can remain fresh for 10 days or even up to two weeks, depending on the variety.

Bonus: How to Dry Roses for Keepsakes

If you want to preserve roses, try drying them:

• Air-dry method: Tie the stems together and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated space for 7–10 days.
• Pressed flower method (for smaller roses): Place the petals between two sheets of paper and press them under a heavy book for about two weeks.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your roses for as long as possible—whether fresh in a vase or preserved as a keepsake!