What are the 3 main functions of refrigerated storage for fresh flowers?

What are the 3 main functions of refrigerated storage for fresh flowers?

• A. Reduce rate of respiration; reduce water loss; reduce the rate of bacterial growth and ethylene production and action
• B. Increase respiration; increase water loss; promote bacterial growth and ethylene
• C. Color preservation only
• D. To kill all bacteria

Answer: (A)

Refrigerated storage for fresh flowers mainly slows the flower’s physiology to extend vase life. The three main functions are: reducing the respiration rate, which slows energy use and aging; reducing water loss by lowering transpiration and maintaining proper humidity so the bouquet stays turgid longer; and reducing microbial growth and the production and action of ethylene, an aging hormone that accelerates wilting. Together, these effects keep blossoms fresher longer. Other options would speed up aging, ignore key physiological factors, or rely on an unrealistic goal of killing all bacteria.

Refrigerated storage for fresh flowers mainly slows the flower’s physiology to extend vase life. The three main functions are: reducing the respiration rate, which slows energy use and aging; reducing water loss by lowering transpiration and maintaining proper humidity so the bouquet stays turgid longer; and reducing microbial growth and the production and action of ethylene, an aging hormone that accelerates wilting. Together, these effects keep blossoms fresher longer. Other options would speed up aging, ignore key physiological factors, or rely on an unrealistic goal of killing all bacteria.