Everything's Coming Up Roses!

189 million. Roses, that is. Last year, we bought 189 million roses for Valentine's Day. That's a lot of flowers!

Roses are the hands-down favorite choice for Valentine's Day, and while most people aren't too concerned with the significance, every color of rose has its own special meaning.

Just a few:

Red roses say "I love you"

Deep red roses imply unconscious beauty.

White roses signify spiritual love and purity

Bridal white means happy love.

Yellow roses today signify joy and gladness.

Coral roses imply desire.

Orange says "I am fascinated and enthusiastic."

Lavender roses mean love at first sight

Light pink roses imply grace, gentility and admiration

Dark pink roses say" thank you."
Pale-colored roses signify friendship.

No matter what color your roses are, there are ways to make them last a bit longer.

If your roses came in plastic water tubes, remove them before arranging.

Remove any leaves that will be under water, taking care not to cut through or scrape the green bark.

Recut stems by removing 1-2 inches with a sharp knife.

Immediately after cutting, place roses in a clean, deep vase of water containing a flower food provided by your florist.

Check the flower food solution daily and make sure to keep it full, clean and fresh. If the solution becomes cloudy, replace it entirely.

Keep your roses in a cool place, out of direct sun and draft.

Published 01/11/08