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

Warm water (100-110°F) moves up stem vessels more quickly than cold water, improving initial hydration of freshly cut flowers.

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

Re-cutting removes the sealed, bacteria-contaminated stem ends, exposing fresh vascular tissue that can absorb water freely.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

45 degrees

Answer

A 45-degree cut increases the exposed surface area for water uptake and prevents the stem end from resting flat against the container bottom.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

35-40°F (2-4°C)

Answer

Most cut flowers are best stored at 35-40°F to slow metabolic activity and bacterial growth, significantly extending vase life.

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

Biocides like sodium hypochlorite kill bacteria that would otherwise multiply, block stem vessels, and shorten flower vase life.

CCF - California Certified Florist Practice Test