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...... a rose is removed from the plant, and sugars which move from the leaves down to the root continue to flow for a short time, but as the flower is cut from the plant, they have no place to go. These sugars can move across the cut surface of the stem, and be drawn up into the water conducting cells where, they can crystallize (become solid) and block the water conducting cells. This is particularly true if air has moved into these cells first. In the case of air or sugar blockage (or combination of both) the life-giving supply of water is cut off, or seriously reduced, and the rose could wilt and die, even if it is placed in water! Fortunately, both air and sugar blockage of the rose stem are restricted to the first one-half inch of the stem from the base cut. Simply recutting the base of the stem removes the block and gives the rose a chance to get rehooked up to its life support water system. To avoid letting the base of the stem "gulp" in another air bubble when the new cut is made, however, we suggest the recutting procedure take place under water. Using a sharp knife or shears, with the base of the stem under water in a pan or sink, OR, by simply holding the stem end under running when the cut is made, you insure a water supply to the rose. Once the cut is made under water, a small droplet of water hangs on the cut end, so you can then safely move the stem to the vase with water where you plan to show off your handsome blooms. Care must be taken that the cut end of the stem doesn't dry off before it reaches its new water supply, however,
On Reviving a Wilted Rose
When reviving a rose in this matter, we suggest the water be about 1000 Fahrenheit, and that you be sure to straighten the angle of the head or it will revive with "bent Neck.". For long-stemmed roses, a couple inches of water in the bottom of your bathtub works well as a place you can lay the bloom out flat under water. (And if you are in the water-starved west you can follow rose revival with a bath yourself. Do remove the rose before you jump in, however, as the thorns are hard on your feet, and the soap is hard on the rose.) Flower Food Helps, Too
Author, By Dr. H. Paul Rasmussen, Dept. of Horticulture
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