Veronica, also known as Speedwell, Gypsyweed, Bird's Eye, and Paul's betony, is a fantastic accent flower for adding height and texture, especially when you want a very natural, wildflower look in your designs. Typically available in shades of blue, purple as well as bright white, Veronica is a very reliable crop that enjoys an extensive vase life if the right steps for care and handling are followed.
Problems & Solutions
Problem:
Ethylene Sensitivity
Solution:
Veronica can benefit from the use of an ethylene action-inhibitor products such as EthylBloc™ during storage and transportation or FloraLife® EthylGuard* at farm level to minimize any risk from ethylene exposure.
Problem:
Disease Sensitivity
Solution:
Veronica can be sensitive to Botrytis. To avoid the development of Botrytis, do not over pack boxes to allow good airflow and prevent mechanical damage, and avoid temperature fluctuations during shipping to prevent any condensation inside packaging.
Problem:
Geotropism
Solution:
Veronica is prone to geotropism when stored horizontally. Keep stems upright during storage and transport to avoid the top part of the stem bending due to geotropism.
Problem:
Hydration
Solution:
Veronica is an extremely thirsty crop and requires a lot of solution to stay hydrated. Hydrate with FloraLife® Express 100 at farm level and continue to check and replenish flower food solution at every stage of the distribution chain to ensure stems stay fresh and hydrated.
Need to Know: Veronica Helpful Hints
Properly Mixed Flower Food: The Benefits
- Helps stalks fully develop.
- Helps Veronica stay hydrated and avoid wilting.
- Results in longer vase life.
- Better color development & retention.
Keep them Fresh!
- Veronica needs excellent hydration and to be replenished continuously to stay fresh. We recommend pre-treating at farms with FloraLife® Express 100 to kick start good hydration after harvest.
- Recommended flower food solution for storage/transport: FloraLife® Express Ultra 200.
- Recommended flower food solution for end consumers: FloraLife® Express 300, FloraLife® Universal* or FloraLife Crystal Clear®* packets.
- Cooler / Storage temperature should be 34-38°F, 1-3°C.
- Veronica can ship dry or wet, the key being to maintain the cold chain throughout distribution. If shipping or storing dry pack, shipping stems upright is preferred to avoid geotropism. Be sure flowers are well hydrated at farm level prior to packing. If shipping or storing wet pack, we recommend using FloraLife® Express Ultra 200 storage and transport solution.
- Line your boxes with FloraLife® Transport Paper sheets* prior to shipping from farms.
Performance
- Average vase life for Veronica is 7-14 days depending on design type.
- Slow to open, Veronica's opening speed will increase with warmer ambient temperature.
- Veronica can be mixed with other flowers without negative effects.
- When processing, product should be received when the first flowers are open. Make sure the flowers and leaves are clean and free from diseases and pests. Avoid stems with any brown flowers, yellow leaves, or shedding. Be sure all leaves that would be below the flower food solution level are removed to avoid contaminating solution. If you aren't using FloraLife® Express technology, you'll want to re-cut stems. If receiving dry pack, process immediately first using FloraLife® Quick Dip followed by FloraLife® Express Ultra 200 for better hydration, especially at wholesale, retail, and bouquet operations. Veronica is a VERY thirsty crop and can wilt quickly without adequate hydration. Check solution levels daily, if water levels become low, you should repeat your processing steps replenishing with a freshly made flower food solution.
- Veronica performs well in foam following a few precautions. If designing in foam, use OASIS® MaxLife for best hydration. We recommend hydrating stems overnight prior to designing. Veronica is best used as a filler or accent flower and works well in any type of design, especially natural or wildflower themes. Cut stems at an angle before inserting into foam and check foam saturation daily to keep stems hydrated.
- Use FloraLife® Finishing Touch spray once designs are complete to keep blooms fresh and hydrated.
FIFO
- Following the FIFO (First In First Out) guideline is always our top recommendation for maintaining the freshest inventory. Following cold chain protocols, Veronica can have a storage life of up to 5 days. If storing wet pack, check water levels occasionally to be sure stems stay hydrated.
Veronica have you intrigued and you'd like to learn more? Visit FloraLife.com or contact your local representation for an in-person consultation!
*Product availability depends upon geographical region. Check here for more information.