Question

What are some ways to tell if flowers have been refrigerated before being sold at a market? Are there other signs that indicate this has happened (e.g., wilting)?

Answer 1

Detecting whether flowers have been refrigerated before being sold at a market can be a bit challenging, as some flowers are commonly refrigerated to extend their shelf life and maintain freshness. However, there are a few signs that might indicate whether flowers have been refrigerated:

1. Condensation: If the flowers are taken out of refrigeration and exposed to warmer temperatures, condensation may form on the petals or leaves. This can give an indication that the flowers have been kept in a cold environment recently.

2. Wilting or drooping: Some flowers, like tropical blooms or certain delicate varieties, might show signs of wilting or drooping if they have been subjected to temperature fluctuations during refrigeration and transportation.

3. Unseasonal availability: If you find flowers that are out of season, they might have been refrigerated and transported from regions where they are grown all year round.

4. Stiffness: Flowers that have been refrigerated might feel stiffer or colder to the touch, compared to freshly cut flowers.

5. Chilled appearance: Sometimes, the flowers might have a slightly chilled appearance, which can be observed by touching the petals gently or noticing their texture.

6. Buds not opening properly: Flowers that have been refrigerated for an extended period might have difficulty fully opening their buds once they are brought back to room temperature.

It's important to note that refrigeration is a common practice in the floral industry to preserve the quality of cut flowers and prolong their vase life. While it might be ideal to have fresh, locally sourced flowers, refrigeration is often necessary for long-distance transportation and storage. The signs mentioned above may not necessarily indicate poor quality; they might just reflect the methods used to keep the flowers fresh.

If you are concerned about the freshness and quality of the flowers, you can always ask the vendor or florist about the source and handling of the flowers. They should be able to provide information about their storage and transportation practices.