How to Cut Roses With Scissors

There are over 100 known species of roses, most of which are native to Asia. Many species, however, are also prevalent in North Africa, Europe and North America. Roses can form an integral part of colorful garden displays, but can also be cut from their bushes to be given as romantic gifts or to brighten up inside spaces. Roses should only be cut using a set of shears or a florist’s scissors, which are designed to cut roses and other flowers.

Shears or florist's scissors
Gardening gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Check the blade of your scissors or garden shears. The blade should be both sharp and clean so the cut is clean and the stem is not substantially damaged. A dirty blade can transmit diseases to your rose bush, whereas a blunt blade can damage the stem. Wash the blades in soap and water and dry thoroughly before cutting.
- 2
  Wait until after three in the afternoon before attempting to cut a rose stem. Rose nutrient levels are highest at this time of day, so the rose is much more likely to live longer if cut at this time.
- 3
  Select a rose. Avoid roses which have already bloomed with the bud fully open. Roses that are in half-bloom are much better candidates, as they will have a longer lifespan once placed in a vase.
- 4
  Put on a pair of gardening gloves. Rose stems usually have sharp thorns which can cause deep cuts during the shearing process.
- 5
  Cut the rose. Determine the length of stem needed for your vase display. Hold the stem at a 45 degree angle and cut with a shears or scissors. Avoid cutting too close to the rose bush foliage, as rose bushes need foliage to sustain healthy growth.
- 6
  Leave at least three leaves on the stem once it has been cut away. The leaves will help feed the bloom and prolong the life of the rose. Leaves that lie below the water line of the vase, however, should be removed.

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