CCF Post-Harvest Care & Floral Preservation 3

Question 1

Which technique is most effective for reviving wilted soft-stemmed flowers such as tulips?

Accepted Answer

Re-cut stems and submerge the entire flower in warm water for 1-2 hours

Answer

Sear the stem ends with an open flame

Answer

Freeze the flowers for 30 minutes to firm petals

Answer

Apply floral wax sealant to the petals

Question 2

What is the most reliable visible sign that a cut flower stem is suffering from bacterial blockage?

Accepted Answer

Stems appearing dark, slimy, or discolored near the cut end

Answer

Petals becoming more intensely colored

Answer

Flowers opening significantly ahead of schedule

Answer

Leaves turning a brighter shade of green

Question 3

How is 'vase life' defined in floral post-harvest terminology?

Accepted Answer

The total number of days a cut flower remains attractive and usable in an arrangement

Answer

The number of times a flower stem can be safely re-cut and re-hydrated

Answer

The time required for a flower bud to fully open after purchase

Answer

The functional lifespan of a reusable glass vase

Question 4

What is the purpose of 'hardening off' tropical flowers such as birds of paradise or anthuriums after cold transport?

Accepted Answer

Gradually acclimating them from cold transport temperatures to ambient room temperature

Answer

Placing them in freezing storage to lock in moisture

Answer

Soaking them in boiling water to expand vascular tissue

Answer

Applying a stiffening preservative spray to the stems

Question 5

What is the correct storage temperature range for chilling-sensitive tropical flowers like orchids and anthuriums?

Accepted Answer

55-65°F (13-18°C)

Answer

33-36°F (0.5-2°C)

Answer

45-50°F (7-10°C)

Answer

32°F (0°C)

Question 6

What is the most effective technique for improving water uptake in woody-stemmed flowers such as lilac or viburnum?

Accepted Answer

Split or crush the bottom inch of the stem to increase the water-absorbing surface area

Answer

Place stems in ice water without any cutting

Answer

Sear the woody stem ends with a propane torch

Answer

Leave stems uncut and insert directly into dry floral foam

Question 7

What is 'pulsing' in commercial floral post-harvest practice?

Accepted Answer

A short, intensive treatment in a high-concentration preservative solution before normal cold storage or distribution

Answer

A technique for removing air emboli from stem xylem while submerged underwater

Answer

A cold-misting method applied to flowers during retail display

Answer

A process alternating flowers between hot and cold water to stimulate opening