Carnations which are known for their incredibly long vase life, have always been a staple for Wholesale Florists to keep stock of. Their vast array of colors and textures is what draws people to this sensational and sometimes overlooked flower. Here at Main Wholesale Florist, we carry a beautiful selection of both standard and mini wholesale carnations!
However, if not treated properly after being cut these strong survivor’s vase lives can be severely compromised. Terrill Nell, Ph.D., AAF, PFCI and professor at University of Florida talks about two major ways to maximize the carnation’s vase life in SAF’s December Issue of Floral Management.
The first tip Nell states is to stock carnations that have already been pretreated with anti-ethylene products such as STS or 1-MCP. Ethylene is an odorless and colorless gas. Flowers naturally give off this gas so using an anti-ethylene product can help prevent flowers from producing it and also protect them from any further exposure. Ethylene can make wholesale carnations revert to a state of sleepiness which means that their blooms will not open fully. It is as if they have no pep and will ultimately begin to droop and die much quicker than if treated. As the wholesale Florist, it is our responsibility to provide good quality products!
Another tip that may seem like common sense but is often overlooked is the addition of flower food while rehydrating. Nell says, “Flower food will help carnations to open fully and last longer.” Sugars that are present in the food will give the carnations energy to help their stems force water up to their blooms. It will also lower the acidity levels in the water and kill any microbes. Flower foods are not only inexpensive but they are also extremely easy to use.
Follow these steps and your wholesale carnations will most certainly have a long-lasting vase life! These hardy favorites are available all year long, so stock up! Click here to learn about our Flower Express Service and have your wholesale carnations and other flowers shipped directly to your retail location.
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