Care and Handling for Flowers- FD Test Review

Why do we use floral preservative food for flowers?

To extend flower life.

Number one reason why flowers lose water:

Transpiration

What does ph do for flowers?

pH of 3.2-4.5 maximizes hydration. Floral preservatives are commonly added to prolong flower life and lower the pH level.

Three causes of blockage in flowers:

-Cutting stems with dull tools -Cutting with shears that pinch the xylem -Bacteria or minerals in the water clog the stem

How do flowers lose food? (2)

-Flowers continue to photosynthesize after they are cut -Must be given proper light and source of sugar

Three reasons why you would want long lasting flowers:

-Important -Pleases Customers -Happy customers return to the florist when they need flowers in the future.

What causes flower deterioration? (2)

-Low water absorption -Most flower stems are at least partially blocked when they arrive at the retail florist.

What causes botrytis?

-Not allowing flowers to dry before putting them in the cooler. -Note: do not allow flowers to get wet before putting them in the cooler.

5 symptoms of ethylene gas:

-Premature death -Flower and petal drop -Yellowing of foliage -Loss of foliage -Upward cupping of petals (Known as sleepiness in carnations.)

Seven steps in conditioning flowers:

-Unpacking -Re-cut the stem -Remove lower foliage -Clean containers and coolers -Containers -Preservation -Allow flowers to absorb water

Ideal storage temp. for a fresh cut flower cooler:

36-42 degrees Fahrenheit.

Botrytis

A fungus which causes brown spots on petals.

Wetting Agents

Aids in water absorption.

Sugars

Carbohydrates to nourish.

What's the proper order for the Chain of Life?

Grower, broker, shipper, wholesaler, forist-retailer-designer, and customer.

What is the chain of life for flowers?

Helps growers, wholesalers, and retailers lengthen the life of flowers/ longer lasting flowers.

Water Quality

Hydration process where flowers draw water and nutrients up their stems to the leaves and flowers through capillaries.

Growth Regulators

Increases the vase life of some flowers.

Biocides

Inhibits the growth of microorganisms.

Acidifiers

Lowers ph levels.

ph

Measure of acidity of alkalinity on a scale from 0-14 with 7 being neutral.

Ethylene Gas

Naturally occurring gas in flowers that speeds up maturity.

Transpiration

Process by which plants lose water through their leaves.