5. Take them out and put them in cool water.

6. You should add 2 teaspoons of household bleach and a pinch of citric acid to each bucket to inhibit any further bacterial growth.

The steaming induces a rush of natural sugars to flower heads and gets stems "drinking". Steaming is beneficial to flowers that may have been out of water for a length of time.

Enjoy your flowers!

4. Remove your roses from their temporary container and lay them flat on a counter top.

5. Remove any leaves which will show below waterline in vase.

6. Cut about 20 mm (3/4 inch) from base of each stem immediately before placing it in vase. This removes any air bubbles.

7. Don't place roses in drafts or direct sunlight, or near fruit, heaters, TVs or refrigerators.

8. Change water daily to extend vase life of your roses.

Freshly picked roses can last up to two weeks with a little extra care.

Enjoy!