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!

As flowers age:

- foliage will start to yellow from bottom upwards

- stems will discolor from bottom up as bacteria spreads from cut

- seeds or pollen on flower head will open and shed spores

- petals will fade in colour, lose moisture, dehydrate and eventually collapse

Remember:

Change water daily, recut stems often and enjoy your flowers longer.