Valentine’s Day and roses go hand in hand. Whether you receive a bouquet of fresh-cut roses or decide to plant a rose bush as a long-term symbol of love, knowing how to care for them ensures they remain beautiful and vibrant. In this guide, we’ll cover how to extend the life of cut roses and provide tips for planting and caring for a rose bush, including the best varieties for beginners.

How to Keep Cut Roses Fresh Longer

If you receive a stunning bouquet of roses for Valentine’s Day, follow these steps to keep them looking fresh for as long as possible:

1. Trim the Stems – Use sharp scissors or garden shears to cut about an inch off each stem at a 45-degree angle. This helps the roses absorb water more efficiently.
2. Use Clean Water – Fill a vase with fresh, lukewarm water and change it every two days to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Add Flower Food – Most bouquets come with a packet of flower food. If you don’t have one, a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of lemon juice can help nourish the roses.
4. Remove Leaves Below Water Line – Leaves submerged in water will decay quickly and cause bacteria to build up, shortening the lifespan of your roses.
5. Keep Them Cool – Place your roses in a cool area, away from direct sunlight, heat vents, or drafts to slow down wilting.
6. Re-Cut Stems Every Few Days – Trimming the stems every couple of days helps roses continue to absorb water.

Planting a Rose Bush for a Love That Grows

If you prefer a gift that lasts beyond Valentine’s Day, planting a rose bush is a beautiful way to celebrate love year after year. Here’s how to do it right.

When to Plant a Rose Bush

The best time to plant roses depends on your climate:

• Spring (After Last Frost) – In most regions, early spring is ideal when the soil is workable and temperatures are mild.
• Fall (6 Weeks Before First Frost) – In warmer climates, fall planting allows the roots to establish before winter.

How to Plant a Rose Bush

1. Choose the Right Location – Roses need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Select a spot with good air circulation and well-draining soil.
2. Prepare the Soil – Roses thrive in rich, loamy soil. Mix in compost or organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.
3. Dig the Hole – The hole should be twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to allow the roots to spread comfortably.
4. Planting the Rose – If you have a bare-root rose, soak it in water for a few hours before planting. Place the rose bush in the hole, ensuring the graft union (swollen part near the base) is slightly above ground level in warm climates and 1-2 inches below ground level in colder climates.
5. Backfill & Water – Fill the hole with soil, lightly pat it down, and water thoroughly to remove air pockets.
6. Mulch & Maintain – Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How to Care for Your Rose Bush

• Watering – Water deeply 1-2 times per week, depending on rainfall and soil moisture.
• Feeding – Use a balanced rose fertilizer in early spring and throughout the growing season.
• Pruning – Prune in early spring to remove dead or weak stems and encourage new growth.
• Pest & Disease Control – Watch for aphids, black spot, and powdery mildew. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can help manage pests organically.

The Easiest Rose Bush for Beginners

If you’re new to rose gardening, consider these low-maintenance varieties:

• Knock Out® Roses – Disease-resistant and bloom continuously with minimal care.
• Drift® Roses – Compact and perfect for small gardens or containers.
• Floribunda Roses – Hardy and prolific bloomers, ideal for beginners.
• Carefree Wonder – A hardy shrub rose that resists disease and thrives with little upkeep.

This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re enjoying a bouquet of cut roses or planting a rose bush for a lasting symbol of love, proper care will ensure they stay beautiful. Roses, like love, flourish with a little attention and the right conditions!