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Ethylene: Ethylene and temperature interact
to influence flower quality, too. In short, as temperatures
increase, it takes less and less ethylene to kill flowers.
Concentration of ethylene and time of exposure resulting
in unacceptable carnation flowers at various temperatures*
| Temperature |
|
| ºC |
ºF |
Ethylene |
Exposure Time |
| 0 |
32 |
4 Days |
2.6 |
| 5 |
41 |
2 Days |
0.9 |
| 20 |
68 |
6 Hours |
2.8 |
| 30 |
86 |
12 Hours |
0.37 |
While the above data is impressive, ethylene levels as
low as 0.03 ppm at 68 degrees Fahrenheit can cause flower
problems. Thus, it behooves florists to make sure that
flowers and plants are held at proper temperatures to
reduce ethylene-induced problems.
* Adapted from Maxie, et al, 1973.
Information
reprinted from SAF Flower and Plant Care Manual, (Society
of American Florists: Alexandria, VA, 1994), pp. 145-146.
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