Keeping flowers fresh and lovely is of utmost importance for florists. Yes, a flower cooler is indispensable, but the fanciest cooling unit won’t do anyone a bit of good without ample room to work. At Cool Master Refrigeration, we know firsthand that better organization can lengthen the lifespan of flowers, minimize waste and make day-to-day operations easier. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your flower cooler.
1. Understand Your Cooler Layout
Take a close look at your cooler’s layout before you start arranging the flowers. Many flower coolers come with adjustable or sectioned shelves that accommodate various types of flowers. Next time, you’ll know exactly where to position tall stems as opposed to delicate blooms, which can prevent crushing and simplify access to the goods.
- Tall flowers, such as lilies or sunflowers, should be kept in their special compartments and stand upright on the floor.
- Shorter stems of carnations, roses, and other flowers can be packed in trays or buckets for easy handling and transportation.
- Premade arrangements must have their own area so they don’t get knocked around.
2. Group Flowers by Type and Temperature
Specific flowers each have their own nuances in storing. It is best to group like blooms together so they are easier to find and can benefit from the appropriate temperature and humidity.
- Fragile blossoms: Keep closer to the front for easy access and delicate care.
- Tough flowers: In the back, where they can take a chill.
- Flowers sensitive to ethylene: Keep flowers away from ripening fruit and plants, which produce ethylene, to avoid premature wilting.
3. Use Buckets and Trays Efficiently
Buckets and trays keep your cooler clean. Consider:
- Stamping flower types and arrival dates on buckets helps keep your stock fresh.
- Stackable trays for small flowers, preserving floor space and supporting blooms upright.
- Buckets for changing the water, making it easy to replace and avoid disturbing other flowers.
4. Implement FIFO (First In, First Out)
Maintaining a first-in, first-out policy allows us to sell the older flowers before the more recent stock. This way, nothing goes to waste and every customer gets the freshest flowers. Place new arrivals behind the older stock, allowing staff to rotate inventory naturally.
5. Optimize Vertical Space
Not to be overlooked is the cooler’s vertical potential. Stackable shelves, hanging racks or tiered trays let you store more flowers without overcrowding. Keep vents clear of obstructions, which is critical for even cooling.
6. Keep Aisles and Access Clear
Plus, a well-organized cooler is rendered useless if staff can’t move about freely. Keep clear aisles and place frequently accessed flowers at the front. This minimizes handling time, prevents accidental damage and maintains flow during busy periods.
7. Regular Maintenance and Cleanliness
A dirty or cluttered cooler can significantly reduce vase life. Wipe down shelves regularly, wash out buckets, and check for standing water. Maintaining a clean cooler prevents items from getting crushed on one another and limits bacterial growth that may damage your bloom.
Final Thoughts
Get the most from your flower cooler with organization, space efficiency and attention to care. With thoughtful placement, good grouping, and regular maintenance, your blooms will last longer, waste will be minimized, and your day-to-day operations will also run more smoothly.
Cool Master Refrigeration. We supply the best flower coolers on the market, along with valuable knowledge, too, for florists. By following these organization tactics, you’ll keep your blooms looking their best from drop-off to show time.