What are the differences between long stem roses and short stem rose? What is a long stemmed rose? Why are they more expensive? How to buy long stem roses on Valentine's Day?
Sounds familiar? Are these the questions that you wonder when you are looking to buy a beautiful rose, or a classic dozen roses?
We know! It's confusing at times. And that is why we are sharing our knowledge and experience with you!
There is a long rich history about roses. A rose is not just a rose. It is a symbol of beauty, culture, fashion, medicine, and food! Not to mention, it is also symbolic for love & wealth. So let us talk about the common variety of roses.
The Queens and Kings of the Floral Kingdom---"The spectacular long stem rose!"
What does this mean? "A long stem rose"
To make it easy to understand, we found a commonly used comparison chart. :)
| Often described as | Length in centimeters | Length in inches | Bud size* |
| Sweetheart or Petite Roses | 30-40 cm | 11.75-15.75 | Buds are generally 1/2 inch diameter and approx. 1 inch high |
| Short Stem Roses sometimes labeled 'medium stem' | 40 cm | 15.75 inches | Buds are generally 1inch in diameter and 1.5 - 2 inches high |
| Medium Stem Roses | 50 cm | 19.75 inches | Buds are generally 1 inch in diameter and 1.5 - 2 inches high |
| Longstem or Long Stem Roses | 60 cm | 23.5 inches | Buds are generally 1.5 inches in diameter and 2 - 2.5 inches high |
| Premium Longstem or Longstem Roses | 70 - 80 cm | 27.5 inches and up | Buds are generally 2 inches in diameter and 2.5 - 3 inches high |
Now you know what is the so called "long stem rose." Here comes another question about the these beautiful blooms. "Why are they more expensive?"
The rose plant is a type of bush. One stem usually grows into 2 or 3 more rose buds, but more often grows shorter and the buds are smaller. So to have a longer stem and larger bud, rose farms prune the extra spray off and leave only one bud per stem. This way the bud & stem will get the most nutrients and grow into the fabulously long stem roses we all love so very much!
So the taller the stem is, the more labor is involved and depending on the type of the rose, the growth time varies. Some roses take more than a 100 days to mature! Some types of roses are only bred for smaller buds! It is a very labor intensive process to create these wonderful blossoms.
Why buy long stem roses? Well, you don't have to!
There are many types of roses available all year around, and the smaller roses are quite lovely! But.....if you are looking for the "WOW" and "Oh-La-La factor", long stem roses are recommended. Although small roses are pretty, they just don't have the visual impact as the long stem varieties.
Here we have another picture to illustrate for you the varying differences between roses.
Bigger buds and the longer the stems are, a taller and bigger vase is used, as well as more greenery and accent flowers. Since roses are sold by length, we wouldn't want to cut too much off! The way to show off the beauty of long stem roses, is to keep as much of the natural form possible! In order to impress your loved one... long stem roses are simply the best! Can't go wrong with the flowers that represent love and wealth!
So what is the best way to send flowers to your lover, friend or family? Call a (real) local florist to find out what your options are and the possibilities of a custom design!
You will be amazed that a rose is not just a rose! It tells a story and carries your love to that special person in your heart.
Enjoying our blog?
Like us on Blossom Street Florist's Facebook Page!
#Roses #Valentines2014 #LocalFlorist
