Refrigeration keeps flowers fresher

University of Florida researchers say they've figured out how to make blooming flowers go the distance -- refrigeration.

"Our research has shown that keeping flowers cold as they move from the field to the florist is critical," said Terril Nell of the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences post-harvest floral program.

In the past, fresh flowers kept their quality longer because they were sold in local markets in the vicinity of the fields where they were grown, according to Charles Kremp, owner of Kremp Florists in Philadelphia.

"When the floral industry began shipping flowers by air to retailers, the quality and longevity declined for the consumer, but with Terril's research, people today are receiving flowers of a better quality that last longer than when roses were grown and sold in the same location."

Copyright 2006 by United Press International

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