What role does humidity play in the refrigeration of floral products?

Humidity plays a crucial role in the preservation and longevity of floral products during refrigeration. Maintaining a higher level of humidity in refrigerated environments helps to reduce the amount of water lost by transpiration, which is the process where water evaporates from the plant tissues. When flowers and foliage transpire more moisture than they can take up through their stems, they can wilt and show signs of stress.

By keeping humidity levels elevated, the rate of transpiration is decreased, allowing the flowers to retain their water, stay hydrated, and maintain freshness for a longer period. This is essential for the overall quality of the flowers, as it helps them look vibrant and healthy for consumers and prolongs their lifespan post-harvest.

In contrast, low humidity can lead to quicker wilting and degradation of floral products, emphasizing the importance of managing humidity levels in refrigeration systems specifically designed for flowers.