Question
I was taught to always remove the thorns on roses arrangements, but the new florist I currently work for says not to remove ther thorns.She said removing the thorns would kill the roses. Is this true? I have been taught that removing the thorns is the proper thing to do. Can you help me with this problem as it is very upsetting to me . Thank you. Brenda Adamson

Answer
It's always been a controversy.  Personally, I find it completely unfounded that removing the thorns causes any damage to the rose.  I've worked for florists who wouldn't remove the thorns.  I've worked for florists who would use scissors to trim only the points off the thorns.  I've worked for florists who use stem strippers to remove thorns.  And their roses all lasted equally well.  So my personal conviction is, thorns should be removed for the safety and comfort of the customer.