One of the great myths about roses when a customer receives them is that the petals on the outer edge are wilted or dying. However, these petals, called guard petals, actually serve a purpose, and it is to protect the rose bud as it is harvested. The guard petals often differ in appearance with charred and wrinkled edges and can be removed. Also, the freshness of a rose can be determined by peeling off the guard petals. If the rose is fresh, the petal can be easily peeled off, and the removal is accompanied by a crisp sound. Roses with that are not as fresh have guard petals that are softer and do not make any sound when they are removed. Just be careful not to peel off the real petals!
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