Keep in mind that the deeper the colour, the longer it will last once preserved. Use a small container to pour the Silica Gel to give you more control. Make sure you get Silica Gel between each petal but don’t squish or damage the petals. Use a stick to keep the petals upright and separated as you pour in the Silica Gel. [2] X Research source Keep at least one inch of Silica Gel to separate multiple roses in the same container. Be sure to record the name of the flower and the date on which you sealed it. Keep the container sealed for at least 2 weeks for standard roses and 1 week for mini roses. Alternatively, you can microwave the gel and flower in a microwave safe dish for 2 to 5 minutes on a low setting. Leave it out to sit for 24 hours before cleaning off the gel. [3] X Research source

To attach loose petals, use a glue gun or a toothpick with a drop of tacky glue. Around the outer base of the calyx on the underside of the bloom, attach a fallen petal with just a tiny drop of glue to make sure that it remains inconspicuous. Allow the glue to dry for at least 24 hours. [5] X Research source

Prior to an ARS rose show, Pro-seal 2000 should not be used. Pro-seal is a clear, glossy varnish typically used in construction. While it will preserve your rose, make sure that you are careful using it. Always wear gloves and protective goggles. Denatured alcohol is often used as a house cleaner but is toxic when ingested so be sure to wear protective gear and wash your hands thoroughly after handling.

Let the rose dry for 24 hours or more. Once dry, repeat the process and add a second coat.

Red and red blends: Veterans’ Honour, Miss Flippins, Olympiad, AceyDeucy, Mountie, Hilde, Coffee Bean, Chelsea Belle, Black Jade, Christian Dior. Pink and pink blends: Show Stopper, Fame, Adams Smile, Timeless, Hanna Gordon, Prima Donna, Rina Hugo,Giggles, Gemini, Valeria Jeanne, Doris Morgan. Orange and orange blends: Kanegem, Starina, Gingersnap, Tropicana, Impatient, Rio Samba, Denver’s Dream, Hot Tamale, Fragrant Cloud, Mardi Gras, Perrine, Copper Sunset. Yellow and yellow blends: Cal Poly, Julia Child, Henry Fonda, Behold, Summer Sunshine, Sunsprite, Midas Touch, Rainbow’s End, Oregold, Bees Knees, Gold Metal, Rise’n’Shine, Glory Be. Apricot and apricot blends: Holy Toledo, Honey Perfume, Amber Sunblaze, Tahitian Sunset, Apricot Twist, Michel Cholet, Angel’s Blush, Jeanne Kenneally, Joycie, Autumn Sunset. Purple and mauve: Lavender Jewel, Barbra Streisand, Dr John Dickman, Fragrant Plum, Vista, Ebb Tide, Winsome, Distant Drums, Wild Blue Yonder. Russets: Teddy Bear, Hot Cocoa, Copper Sunset Fun colours: Gizmo,Fourth of July, Fancy Pants, Purple Tiger, Neon Cowboy, Hurdy Gurdy.

Replace the absorbent paper every week and allow the roses to dry for up to 3 weeks or more. Make sure the roses are as dry as you can make them before pressing them. Do not place them in the book directly from the vase. Shake off excess water.

Do not use a gliding motion but rather just press the iron down onto the top sheet. Check by gently lifting the top sheet to make sure the flower is dry.

Hanging them upside down prevents moisture from being trapped in the petals. Moisture can lead to mold which can damage your flowers. The roses will shrink as they dry. You may need to retie them together if the string is no longer tight around them. Be careful when handling the dried flowers as they can be very brittle.

Create a 5% dilution with one cup of bleach for every gallon of water. You should also use this dilution for cleaning your scissors before cutting your roses. Bacteria that deteriorate freshly cut roses may reside in vases that have not been clean.

Try not to cut your roses at midday or later as they will have the least amount of substance. Keep your roses cool. Roses will last longer in cool weather and deteriorate in heat. If the weather is cool, you may be able to cut your roses later in the day.

For example St. Patrick and Moonstone roses have many petals and can be cut when they are more open.

Remove any foliage below the waterline if you’re using the roses for a bouquet.

Cut roses will last longer if they are placed in the fridge overnight as you sleep.

Varieties that tend to last longer in vases are:[21] X Research source Crystalline Secret Red Intuition St. Patrick Veteran’s Honor Black Magic Andrea Stelzer Louise Estes Moonstone Elizabeth Taylor

Cut your roses under water every day as you change the vase water.