CCF Post-Harvest Care & Floral Preservation

Question 1

What is the recommended water temperature for initially conditioning freshly cut flowers to maximize water uptake?

Accepted Answer

Warm water (100-110°F)

Answer

Ice cold water (32-40°F)

Answer

Boiling water (212°F)

Answer

Room temperature water (68-72°F)

Question 2

What is the primary reason to re-cut flower stems before placing them in water?

Accepted Answer

To remove bacteria-laden sealed ends and improve water uptake

Answer

To improve the aesthetic appearance of the stem

Answer

To reduce stem length for easier arrangement

Answer

To test the structural strength of the stem

Question 3

At what angle should stems be cut to maximize water absorption?

Accepted Answer

45 degrees

Answer

90 degrees (straight across)

Answer

30 degrees

Answer

60 degrees

Question 4

What is the ideal storage temperature range for most temperate cut flowers?

Accepted Answer

35-40°F (2-4°C)

Answer

55-65°F (13-18°C)

Answer

65-75°F (18-24°C)

Answer

20-25°F (-7 to -4°C)

Question 5

Which component of a floral preservative solution is primarily responsible for preventing bacterial growth in vase water?

Accepted Answer

A biocide such as sodium hypochlorite

Answer

Sugar

Answer

Citric acid

Answer

Table salt

Question 6

What does the floral industry term 'conditioning' (also called hardening) refer to?

Accepted Answer

Allowing freshly cut flowers to fully hydrate before use in arrangements

Answer

Treating stems with wax to seal cut ends

Answer

Freezing flowers for long-term cold storage

Answer

Applying a heat treatment to firm flower petals

Question 7

Which category of flowers requires their stem ends to be singed with a flame before conditioning to prevent sap from blocking water uptake?

Accepted Answer

Euphorbia and poppies

Answer

Roses

Answer

Carnations

Answer

Lilies