A complete guide to roses: symbolism and care tips
It’s hard to find a flower more deeply rooted in symbolism than the rose. The bloom of love, romance and beauty, this beautiful floral is a true classic. With an abundant palette and a host of petal variations, there are so many types of roses to choose from, making them the floral gifts that keep on giving.
When are roses in season?
Roses are in season between late spring and early autumn, providing plentiful time to enjoy them in all their glory. Although their growing season is limited, you’ll likely find rose bouquets available all year round, particularly in the lead up to Valentine's Day, when they are considered a quintessential flower to gift a loved one.Where are roses commonly grown?
Roses are grown all over the world, but most species are native to Asia, with some species grown in parts of northwest Africa, North America and Europe. Although England's national flower is the rose, only a few of these much-loved flowers are native to the British isles.What is the meaning behind gifting roses?
Roses are usually given as an expression of love, whether to a romantic interest, family member or friend. This prolific bloom is available in a rainbow of hues, and every shade carries a different sentiment. Here are some of the most popular rose colours and their meanings.- Red roses
Twinned with romance, the red rose is perhaps the most famous variety and the one you’ll most likely find in a floristry. Symbolising romantic love, passion and desire, this bloom is the one to choose if you wish to show your affection to someone special. - Pink roses
Pink roses represent happiness, love and admiration, as well as femininity and elegance. They’re a subtler hue than their sister red, and can be a wonderful way to express love for a family member or friend. - Yellow roses
Vibrant and joyful, the yellow rose unsurprisingly signifies friendship, summing up the joy of that special bond with its cheerful hue. This flower was once considered to represent jealousy and greed, but in the present day it has far more positive connotations. - Orange roses
The zingy orange rose exudes energy, excitement and enthusiasm, three sentiments it’s so often twinned with. Mixing the love of the red rose with the cheerful friendship of the yellow, it’s the perfect mood-boosting bloom to send to a loved one in need to an uplift. - White roses
White roses are a popular choice for weddings, and not just because of their elegant ivory hue. They signify new beginnings, young love and eternal loyalty, making them a fitting bloom for newlyweds.
How to make roses last longer
How long do roses last? With the right care and attention, your cut roses can last for up to seven days. If you want to know how to keep cut roses from wilting, simply follow these easy rose care tips.1. Trim the stems of your roses using sharp secateurs, snipping the stems at a diagonal slant to help them absorb as much water as possible.
2. Remove any lower leaves that may be covered by water. This prevents bacteria from building up, which will help to extend the lifespan of your roses.
3. Some florists will send their roses with the guard petals intact; these are the exterior petals and are typically brown or green in colour, which is why they’re sometimes mistaken for dying flowers. They’re in fact a protective layer that helps to keep the petals fresh. If your rose flowers arrive with these, take them off to help your stems direct their energy elsewhere. This will also allow you to enjoy your roses in their full, colourful glory.
4. Fill a vase with fresh water and add any flower food that your stems have arrived with, before placing the stems in the vase.
5. Keep an eye on the water levels and change for fresh water every couple of days.
Where should you display your roses?
Placement is key when considering how to keep roses fresh, as temperature and light can all have an impact on your flowers’ lifespan. Roses prefer darker, cooler environments, so once you’ve popped your flowers in the vase, place them in a location away from direct sunlight, radiators and draughts. In terms of aesthetic placements, a vase of roses will look stunning as a centrepiece on a dining table or coffee table, placed on a console table in a hallway, or used to freshen up a side table in a bedroom.
Are roses pet friendly?
Yes, all rose varieties are considered to be safe for pets, making them a great gift for households with four-legged friends. If your roses arrive with thorns, we’d recommend keeping them out of reach of pets or young children.Do roses stain?
Yes, unfortunately rose petals can stain fabrics and surfaces, especially those that are a darker colour, such as red roses. Stains should be treated similarly to red wine stains, and treated quickly using a wet cloth and washing up liquid. If the stain remains, seek specialist stain remover.Alternatives to roses
If the rose you’re looking for isn’t available, there are some beautiful alternatives that will emulate the romance and elegance of this much-loved bloom. Lisianthus look very similar to roses, with beautiful, layered petals that bloom to create a round, delicate bud. Ranunculi are roses’ lookalikes, with tissue-thin petals layered together like floral mille feuille. Other rose-like blooms include carnations, camelias and gardenias, which all have beautifully layered petals and pretty palettes.If you have your heart set on roses, why not explore our collection of rose bouquets or fairtrade roses ? They make a beautiful gift for the hopeless romantic, anniversary celebration or special birthday .