What effect does refrigeration have on the maturity of fresh flowers?

Refrigeration significantly impacts the maturity of fresh flowers by delaying their maturation process. When flowers are stored in a cool environment, the lower temperatures slow down the physiological processes, including respiration and ethylene production, which are crucial for the aging and maturation of flowers. This delay allows the flowers to maintain their freshness and extend their shelf life, as the cooling inhibits the natural progression toward wilting and senescence.

In contrast, warmer temperatures typically accelerate the maturity process, leading to a faster opening of blooms and a shortened vase life. Therefore, utilizing refrigeration is a common practice in floral storage to preserve quality and prolong the usability of flowers before they are arranged or sold.