The document discusses conditioning roses and other cut flowers. Conditioning involves treating cut flowers with a solution to prevent bacterial growth. It should be done every 3-4 days to keep flowers hydrated and prolong their longevity, which for roses is typically 3-10 days. Conditioning solutions contain nutrients, acids to lower the water's pH, and antibacterial agents. Common household items that can be used instead of commercial floral preservatives include clear sodas and mouthwash.
2. Standard Rose Genus Name: Rosa Availability: year-round Color: red, pink, yellow, white, lavender, orange, and bicolors Fragrant; air-dries well; will benefit from stems being cut under water during processing Sold by the stem length 40 -60 -70 cm Mass flower: The rose is as varied in color as in its applications. Uses are limitless. Longevity: days 3-10 Sold by bunch (25), $1.00/stem
3. Conditioning The process of preparing flowers for shipping, storage, or arrangement . It usually involves treating the flowers in a conditioning solution . Done at every stage from farm to floral shop. Needs to be done every 72 to 96 hrs.
4. Botany 101 Leaves constantly lose water through the stoma. Xylem – Hollow tubes in stems and leaves that transport water from roots to leaves When cut, they become clogged by bacteria & decomposing plant material
5. Botany 101 Photosynthesis – making food from sunlight & CO 2 CO 2 + H 2 O -> C 6 H 12 O 6 + O 2 Takes place in leaves and green stems Requires sunlight – or correct artificial light Respiration C 6 H 12 O 6 + O 2 -> CO 2 + H 2 O Reverse of photosynthesis All living cells do it – even plants Living plants photosynthesize more than they respire Cutting plants does not instantly “kill” them. Respiration continues longer than photosynthesis
6. FloraLife Powdered mix supplies: Agent to kill bacteria Nutrients for the flowers Acid to lower pH of the water Other items that have these are: Clear sodas Listerine
7. Receiving flowers Unwrap all flowers EXCEPT ROSES Remove all foliage that will be below the water line Cut stems on an angle ~2” from old cut Place in warm conditioned water Use about 3 - 4” of water in the bottom of the container. Use 1 TBSP conditioner per quart or ¼ cup per gallon. Allow 30 – 60 minutes to rehydrate. Place in the refrigerator
8. Conditioning flowers Badly wilted flowers can be allowed to soak in a tub Allow the flower portion to dry before refrigerating Roses should be cut under water so no air is absorbed into the xylem. Fill the sink or use a tub