Want to extend the vase life of those expensive roses you just received from your loved one? Keep it cool! No, don't put it in the refrigerator or freezer. Keep it in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
That's the advice of University of Florida (UF) researchers who have found a number of easy ways to make flowers last longer after they are cut.
Their goal is simple: they want consumers to get more bang for the buck when it comes to purchasing flowers. So far, their post-harvest techniques have kept flowers looking fresh and have extended their vase life by three or more days.
"Our research has shown that keeping flowers cold as they move from the field to the florist is critical," said Terril Nell, who has been involved with the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences postharvest floral program for over two decades.
Like people, flowers will benefit from cleanliness too. Nell says the use of sanitized containers and properly mixed commercial flower foods will go a long way in keeping flowers alive.
A common problem with roses is the "bent neck" syndrome. This occurs in rose buds that fail to bloom three days after they are purchased due to the bending of the stem just below the flower. This causes the flowers to wilt and die.
"Generally, this problem has been greatly reduced due to use of improved handling procedures from grower to consumer and better rose varieties developed by rose breeders. As seen with the reduction of bent neck over the last five to eight years, the results of this research program are making a difference with consumers already. We hope to make even greater strides in the next two to three years," Nell said.
When buying roses, look for freshly cut stems. Put the flowers in a clean vase together with flower food and re-cut the stems to extend vase life. This advice also works for lilies and alstromeria.
As the quality of flowers increases, Nell expects more people will buy them, bringing more happiness to those who receive them.
"It's not enough to offer consumers a beautiful flower. It needs to come with an extended warranty to remain lovely for a reasonable period of time. Our research is providing scientific basis for that kind of guarantee," he concluded.
That's the advice of University of Florida (UF) researchers who have found a number of easy ways to make flowers last longer after they are cut.
Their goal is simple: they want consumers to get more bang for the buck when it comes to purchasing flowers. So far, their post-harvest techniques have kept flowers looking fresh and have extended their vase life by three or more days.
"Our research has shown that keeping flowers cold as they move from the field to the florist is critical," said Terril Nell, who has been involved with the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences postharvest floral program for over two decades.
Like people, flowers will benefit from cleanliness too. Nell says the use of sanitized containers and properly mixed commercial flower foods will go a long way in keeping flowers alive.
A common problem with roses is the "bent neck" syndrome. This occurs in rose buds that fail to bloom three days after they are purchased due to the bending of the stem just below the flower. This causes the flowers to wilt and die.
"Generally, this problem has been greatly reduced due to use of improved handling procedures from grower to consumer and better rose varieties developed by rose breeders. As seen with the reduction of bent neck over the last five to eight years, the results of this research program are making a difference with consumers already. We hope to make even greater strides in the next two to three years," Nell said.
When buying roses, look for freshly cut stems. Put the flowers in a clean vase together with flower food and re-cut the stems to extend vase life. This advice also works for lilies and alstromeria.
As the quality of flowers increases, Nell expects more people will buy them, bringing more happiness to those who receive them.
"It's not enough to offer consumers a beautiful flower. It needs to come with an extended warranty to remain lovely for a reasonable period of time. Our research is providing scientific basis for that kind of guarantee," he concluded.
About the Author:
For fresh, beautiful flowers that are professionally designed and perfect for any occasion, go to Discount Flower Delivery Bloomington
No comments:
Post a Comment