Nothing says 'I Love You' more than a bouquet of red roses given by a beloved on a special occasion such as Valentine's Day. And now, a researcher has developed ways to keep your roses blooming a little while longer.
Terril Nell, a University of Florida environmental horticulturist has developed ways to extend flower quality and vase life by three or more days through post-harvest techniques
According to him, both growers and buyers can increase the longevity of roses by two to three days by not only keeping them in a cold place, but also using properly mixed commercial flower foods, and using clean, sanitised containers.
"Our research has shown that keeping flowers cold as they move from the field to the florist is critical," he said.
As for the buyers, Nell is advising them to look for freshly cut stems, then re-cut the stems, use a commercial flower food and place the flowers in a clean vase, while keeping them in a cool place, away from heat vents and out of direct sunlight.
"It is already proven that flowers are the most popular gift to receive, that they consistently increase a sense of individual well-being, and are even capable of increasing creative thought and output in workplace settings. If we can help make floral products last longer, their value to consumers will be greater," Nell said.
{{/usCountry}}"It is already proven that flowers are the most popular gift to receive, that they consistently increase a sense of individual well-being, and are even capable of increasing creative thought and output in workplace settings. If we can help make floral products last longer, their value to consumers will be greater," Nell said.
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