LEDs Prolong Cut Flower Life
Researchers in Japan have developed a system of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and batteries that emulate sunlight and reportedly can prolong the life of cut flowers while reducing production costs. This lighting system can be installed in containers used to ship cut flowers and potted plants.
Using a timer, the LEDs can be turned on during the day while the flowers are being shipped and then turned off at night. According to an article in the Asahi Shimbun, the LED lighting system was developed by Tsurmik Floriculture Auction Co., Matsushita Electric Works Ltd. and Iwatani Materials Corp.
The companies said that by implementing this method, cut flowers can last about two weeks versus one week using traditional methods because the flowers will not deteriorate due to moisture release during darkness.
You can read the Asahi Shimbun article at www.asahi.com/english/Herald-asahi/TKY200611010150.html.
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