Roses (genus Rosa) are fascinating flowers, rich in history and meaning, with their breathtaking beauty and enveloping scent, they have always been a symbol of love, passion and affection. These delicate and colorful flowers are often chosen to express deep feelings and to decorate environments with elegance. In this article, we will explore the meaning of roses, how to preserve them, and some valuable botanical tips.
History of the Rose: The First Traces
The wild forms of the Rosa genus grow wild in the northern hemisphere, in Asia, Africa, North America, Europe and the Middle East. The first fossil traces date back to 20-30 million years ago. Remains of roses have been found in Egyptian tombs, and the first literary reference to this plant was made by Homer when he describes the gesture of Aphrodite who anoints the body of the deceased Hector with rose oil.
The Romans had a real passion for roses. They wove them into crowns and garlands, scattered petals on the floors of banquets and obtained essences for ointments and perfumes. Roman farmers transformed corn fields into extensive rose cultivation.
At the end of the 18th century, ancient Chinese roses (Rosa chinensis) arrived in Europe thanks to trade with the East. These roses, capable of flowering several times a year, were a turning point in hybridization. European gardeners created a wide variety of roses in the 19th century. Roses have always been popular in the floriculture market. Grown for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and other special occasions, roses continue to enchant with their timeless beauty.
The Meaning of Roses
Roses are full of meaning and each color has a specific connotation:
Red Rose: The red rose is the symbol of passionate love and passion. It is the perfect flower to declare your feelings to a loved one.
White Rose: The white rose represents purity, innocence and spirituality. It is often chosen for weddings and other sacred occasions.
Yellow Rose: The yellow rose symbolizes friendship and joy. It is an ideal gift to celebrate brotherly bonds and happy moments.
Pink Rose: This color is associated with appreciation and gratitude. It’s perfect for saying “thank you” or showing affection towards someone.
Orange Rose: Orange roses represent enthusiasm and energy. They are perfect for expressing admiration and desire.
Conservation of Roses
Roses, unfortunately, have a short life once cut. However, with some conservation techniques, we can prolong their beauty and enjoy their petals even after they have been donated. Here’s how to store roses:
Drying: Drying is a traditional method for preserving roses. Choose fresh roses, remove excess leaves and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place. This process allows us to keep roses with us for years, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romance.
Silica Gel and Glycerin: If you want longer-lasting preservation, you can use silica gel or glycerin. These materials help maintain the shape and color of roses over time.
Cutting Stems: Change the water every two days and lightly cut the stems of the roses. This prevents mold formation and prolongs their freshness.
Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight: Place roses away from heat sources and direct sunlight. This will preserve their colors and structure.
FAQ on rose conservation
How can I preserve roses permanently?
Pressing: A common technique for preserving roses is pressing. Press the flowers between the pages of a heavy book, placing them between paper towels to avoid stains. Leave the pressed roses for a few weeks, until they are completely dry and flat.
Drying: Hang the flowers upside down in a dark, well-ventilated place. After a few weeks, the roses will have dried completely and you can store them in a vase or frame them.
Preservative substances: There are specific substances you can use to preserve roses. Carefully follow the instructions for soaking the roses in the preservative solution, which will keep them fresh and colorful for a long time.
Stabilization: This advanced method involves impregnation of roses with chemicals to maintain their original shape and color. You may need to turn to industry professionals for this technique.
What are the steps for preserving fresh roses?
Cutting Stems: Change the water every two days and lightly cut the stems of the roses. This prevents mold formation and prolongs their freshness.
Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight: Place roses away from heat sources and direct sunlight to preserve their colors and texture.
How can I get rid of lice from roses?
Natural Remedies: You can prepare a solution of water and neutral soap or use neem oil, lavender oil or vinegar to fight lice.
Prevention: Check plants regularly for signs of infestation and remove lice manually.
Conclusions
Roses are much more than just flowers. They are messengers of emotions, keepers of memories and symbols of beauty. Whether you store them dried or fresh, roses will continue to enchant you with their timeless elegance.
