How To Reflex a Preserved Rose

In this article, I will explain what reflexing roses means, why florists do it, how to do it and show you the before and after of this easy floral D.I.Y trick.

WHAT IS REFLEXING?

Reflexing is a common term in the flower industry. But what does it mean? Reflexing means carefully bending the flower's petals outwards, away from the bloom's center, without creasing the petals. It opens up the flower. This practice is often used for fresh and preserved roses, among other flowers. 

Reflexing a preserved rose is a delicate technique; working with one petal at a time is best. Take your time and be gentle so you don't damage the petals.

It's a great example of getting the most value out of your preserved roses.

WHY WOULD YOU DO IT?

Many professional florists use this technique to create a larger (focal) flower and a more natural look in dried floral arrangements. By reflexing, you make the flower more prominent. It's a great example of getting the most value out of your preserved roses.

Handling the preserved rose gently is essential since the petals are delicate. Another fact to keep in mind is that the roses are already preserved, and therefore they may be less flexible than fresh flowers.

HOW TO REFLEX A PRESERVED ROSE

Reflexing a preserved rose involves the following steps:

1. Hold the rose by the stem and use your fingers to carefully bend the petals downward, away from the bloom's center, without creasing the petals.

2. Work your way from the outer layers of petals to the inner layers of petals.

3. Use your fingers to shape the petals to your desired position. Sometimes it helps to gently blow onto the rose to help it open a little more.

4. Repeat this process for each petal, working your way around the roses.

TIP: Sometimes, it helps to gently blow onto the rose to help it open a little more.

DIY VIDEO; HOW TO REFLEX A PRESERVED ROSE

Kelly, our Operations & Customer Service Manager of All InSeason New Zealand, is an experienced florist herself. She will show you exactly how it's done in the video below.

WHAT PRESERVED ROSES TO USE

While we have a range of preserved roses available, we recommend the super, splendid, and monalisa preserved roses. They are a perfect size, as you want the roses to be manageable.

CONCLUSION

Reflexing roses is a trick of the floral trade and helps to get the most value out of your preserved roses by increasing the size and creating a more prominent focal flower for your floral design.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ader Broersen – Ader is Co-owner, Marketing & Sales Director at All InSeason Australia & New Zealand | 20+ years of experience in the agricultural/flower industry both in Holland and Australia with a passion for flowers.

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