Discovering the Secret Storage Haven- Where Fresh Flowers Thrive in a Floral Design Shop
Where are fresh flowers stored in a floral design shop?
In the world of floral design, the storage of fresh flowers is a critical aspect that ensures their longevity and beauty. Proper storage not only maintains the quality of the flowers but also preserves their vibrant colors and fresh scent. This article delves into the common storage practices employed by floral designers to keep their blooms in optimal condition.
The first and foremost place where fresh flowers are stored in a floral design shop is the cooler room. This temperature-controlled area is specifically designed to maintain the ideal storage conditions for flowers. Typically, the cooler room is kept at a consistent temperature between 35°F to 40°F (1.7°C to 4.4°C), which slows down the flower’s metabolic rate and extends their freshness.
The cooler room is often equipped with shelves or racks where floral designers arrange the flowers in water-filled vases or buckets. This method of storing flowers in water helps to keep them hydrated and reduces the risk of wilting. The vases or buckets are placed in a way that allows for easy access and retrieval, ensuring that designers can quickly select the flowers they need for their arrangements.
In addition to the cooler room, floral design shops often have a dry storage area for flowers that have been out of water for a short period. This space is used to temporarily store flowers that are being arranged or for those that require time to open up before being used. The dry storage area is kept at a slightly higher temperature than the cooler room, usually around 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C), to prevent the flowers from drying out too quickly.
Another important storage practice in a floral design shop is the use of floral foam. This absorbent material is commonly used to secure flowers in arrangements and can also be stored in the cooler room. Floral foam is soaked in water and kept moist to maintain its structure and absorbency. It is crucial to keep the floral foam hydrated, as it provides the flowers with the necessary moisture to stay fresh.
Furthermore, floral design shops often have a selection of specialty flowers that require specific storage conditions. For instance, some flowers, such as orchids or proteas, may need to be stored in a more humid environment to retain their moisture and prevent them from drying out. In such cases, a humidifier may be used to maintain the desired humidity level in the storage area.
In conclusion, the storage of fresh flowers in a floral design shop is a meticulous process that involves maintaining optimal temperature, humidity, and moisture levels. The cooler room, dry storage area, floral foam, and humidity control are all essential components in ensuring that the flowers remain vibrant and fresh for as long as possible. By adhering to these storage practices, floral designers can create stunning arrangements that delight their customers and showcase their artistic skills.
