June is the month of the Rose and it’s is our national flower. The American people have long held a special place in their hearts for roses.
The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 159 has designated the rose as the National Floral Emblem of the United States

On November 20, 1986, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America signed the proclamation claiming the rose as the National Floral emblem of the United States of America.

The rose is thirsty flower – it needs a deep well of fresh flower food solution to stay fresh and continue the life cycle.

You will find Roses at every level of quality and price. What you pay will directly effect how long they will last in your home. Of course they do not last as long without some help from you – you and your florist have to become partners in the care of the roses you buy and take home.
I recommend that you use a fresh flower food solution. A floral preservative contains an agent to kill bacteria, an ingredient to acidify or lower the water pH (which makes it easier for the stem to take up water), and a nutrient to feed the bloom. Mix it according to the directions on the back of the packet. Follow those directions – 5grams of food for every pint. This is a pint.

When you get the flower home cut the roses stem underwater a least 1” from the end of the stem. Re-cut the stem about every 3 to 4 days and check the fresh flower food. If you need to replenish the solution do so with another mixture of fresh flower food.

Do not place your roses in sunlight, in a draft or on any heat producing appliance.

Your local florist can be a great source of information for roses and how to care for them. The more you know the longer your fresh cut roses will last. All you have to do is call or stop at your flower shop. Satisfaction is only a purchase away.

If you have questions or comments for Pat, email him at patgustaf@gustafsgreenery.com or visit http://www.gustafsgreenery.com.