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Botrytis is deemed as one of the most destructive elements associated with wholesale flowers. What is botrytis and why is it so harmful? It is bacteria that sharply reduces the vase life of many flowers. You might notice dark brown spots appear on petals or the softening of stems. These infections can lead to a loss in business and hard-ache for customers.
Botrytis cinerea (grey mould) is a fungus which causes a loss of quality in flowers like Rosa, Chrysanthemum, Gerbera and Lisianthus. The place of origin, season, hygiene during processing and storage, weather conditions and climate control play an important role in the appearance and development of Botrytis. The fungus thrives on both living and dead plant materials. The infection starts when miniscule little mould spores, spread through the air. Starting as a little white speck (‘pock’) on the flower petals, it spreads right to the bottom of the flower. It gradually changes its colour to brown and finally all the petals fall off. In order to move, these spores need moisture. Condensation on the bud/flower and packaging is often enough for the Botrytis spores to quickly develop.
What can you do?
Have the ability to identify botrytis
First, you must know the physical characteristics and signs that your flowers might have been infected. You will first see small dots or staining on its petals and leaves. If the stems look limp or the petals lose their vibrancy, your flowers might be affected. Be quick to notice botrytis and respond because once it hits, the illness will spread fast. Take extra care of botrytis-prone flowers such as delphinium and snapdragons
Inspect Flowers and clean work areas
As a retail florist, you will have a trained eye when it comes to selecting great flowers for your shop. Infection with botrytis often happens early in the chain. Pay attention when buying flowers. Buy flowers from sources that are trustworthy and known for their quality. Check the presence of the so-called ‘pocks’ at the time of purchase. Look over each stem carefully before hydrating your flowers and make sure the water is clean. Wash your hands as you can transmit botrytis by touch as well. The bacteria can hide in foliage. Remove any leaves that seem to be compromised. Be sure to keep your work spaces clean and sanitize all buckets thoroughly to minimize transmission.
Remove all plastic and other packaging
Pull the packaging materials down after delivery and during cold storage in order to allow the flowers ‘to breath’ and air circulation to be at its optimum. Work hygienically: clean and disinfect tables, knives and cutting tools at least on a daily basis. The presence of moisture and condensation creates a breeding ground for botrytis. When plastic sleeves are kept on bunches of flowers, air cannot flow and humidity begins to build creating the perfect environment for any bacteria to thrive.
