Rose Harvest Stage

For both professional gardeners and hobbyists, understanding the correct stage for harvesting roses is crucial for their longevity. A recent inquiry from a pro platform member led us to explore this topic with a collection of potted roses.

Our Roses

The roses we’re examining are samples from our wholesale suppliers. By growing them in pots, we can observe their early bloom and decide if they should be included in next year’s collection.

Finding the Right Harvest Stage

For harvesting roses, timing is key. You'll see a new yellow rose named "Make Me Blush." As it blooms, it’s expected to reveal pink or blush streaks.

When harvesting, look at the sepals—the green, petal-like leaves around the bud. Harvest when three-quarters of these have moved away from the bud. If the rose is slightly past this stage, it can still be cut rather than letting it go to waste.

Tightly closed buds need more time to mature. Harvest them in the morning when they’re ready for cutting.

Preserving Freshness

After cutting, it’s important to act quickly since the bottom of the rose cane callouses in about 15 seconds. Place them in water without delay. In our studio, we recut the roses and use clean water. Our farm avoids chemicals or post-harvest treatments.

Tailoring Roses for Use

For bridal bouquets, use open roses for immediate display. Ensure these blooms have time to hydrate in cooler conditions.

Growing Tips from Our Farm

These roses are growing in seven-gallon pots. Container gardening is possible for roses. They could remain in pots long-term or move to larger pots. Separately, we grow approximately 600 roses in the ground in three high tunnels outside, blooming from Mother's Day through October.

For those interested in rose cultivation, particularly in colder climates, we offer an online course. It is open on an ongoing basis for new registrations.

Closing

Thank you for exploring rose harvesting with us. Until next time, happy gardening! Please feel free to reach out with any questions.