Should You Keep Flowers in the Fridge? And Why Do Cats Love to Sit on Freshly Printed Newspapers?

Flowers are a universal symbol of beauty, love, and celebration. Whether you’ve received a bouquet as a gift or picked fresh blooms from your garden, keeping them vibrant and fresh for as long as possible is a priority. One common piece of advice is to store flowers in the fridge. But is this really the best way to preserve their beauty? Let’s explore this topic in depth, along with some quirky, unrelated musings about life.

The Science Behind Refrigerating Flowers

Refrigerating flowers is a practice rooted in science. Flowers, like all living organisms, have a metabolic rate. Lowering the temperature slows down this rate, reducing the speed at which they consume nutrients and water. This, in turn, extends their lifespan. Florists often use commercial coolers to store flowers before arranging them, and your home fridge can mimic this environment—to some extent.

However, not all flowers thrive in cold conditions. Tropical flowers, such as orchids and anthuriums, prefer warmer temperatures and may suffer in a fridge. On the other hand, roses, lilies, and carnations are more resilient and can benefit from a cool environment.

The Pros of Keeping Flowers in the Fridge

Extended Freshness: As mentioned, refrigeration slows down the aging process of flowers, keeping them fresh for days or even weeks longer than if left at room temperature.
Preservation of Delicate Blooms: Flowers with fragile petals, like peonies or hydrangeas, can benefit from the stable, cool environment of a fridge.
Prevention of Wilting: Heat and direct sunlight are enemies of fresh flowers. Storing them in the fridge protects them from these elements.
Convenience for Special Occasions: If you’re preparing for an event and want your flowers to look their best, refrigerating them beforehand can be a game-changer.

The Cons of Keeping Flowers in the Fridge

Risk of Ethylene Exposure: Many fruits and vegetables emit ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to wilt prematurely. If your fridge contains produce, your flowers might not fare well.
Temperature Fluctuations: Frequent opening and closing of the fridge can cause temperature fluctuations, which may stress the flowers.
Limited Space: Unless you have a dedicated flower fridge, space constraints might make it impractical to store large bouquets.
Potential for Damage: Flowers can be delicate, and the confined space of a fridge might lead to crushed petals or broken stems.

Tips for Refrigerating Flowers

If you decide to store your flowers in the fridge, follow these tips to maximize their freshness:

Remove Fruits and Vegetables: Keep flowers away from ethylene-producing items like apples, bananas, and tomatoes.
Use a Dedicated Drawer: If possible, store flowers in a separate drawer to protect them from temperature changes and physical damage.
Keep Them Hydrated: Place the stems in water or wrap them in a damp paper towel before refrigerating.
Avoid Freezing Temperatures: Ensure your fridge is set to a cool but not freezing temperature, ideally between 34°F and 36°F (1°C to 2°C).

Unrelated Musings: Why Do Cats Love Freshly Printed Newspapers?

While we’re on the topic of preserving beauty, let’s take a detour into the mysterious world of cats. Have you ever noticed how cats seem irresistibly drawn to freshly printed newspapers? It’s not just the crinkly sound or the warmth of the paper. Cats are highly sensitive to smells, and the ink used in newspapers contains compounds that mimic pheromones. This makes the newspaper smell intriguing—or even comforting—to your feline friend. Plus, the texture provides the perfect surface for kneading, a behavior rooted in kittenhood.

Final Thoughts

Refrigerating flowers can be a great way to extend their lifespan, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider the type of flowers, the conditions in your fridge, and your specific needs before deciding. And while you’re at it, maybe set aside a section of your newspaper for your cat—after all, everyone deserves a little joy.

Q: Can I store flowers in the freezer instead of the fridge?
A: No, freezing temperatures can damage the cell structure of flowers, causing them to wilt or turn brown.

Q: How long can flowers last in the fridge?
A: Depending on the type of flower and the conditions, they can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Q: Should I cover the flowers before putting them in the fridge?
A: Yes, loosely covering them with a plastic bag can help retain moisture and protect them from drafts.

Q: Why do cats knead newspapers?
A: Kneading is a comforting behavior that stems from kittenhood, and the texture of newspapers provides an ideal surface for this activity.