What happens when flowers are harvested too late?

When flowers are harvested too late, they generally have reduced vase life. This means that once placed in water, the flowers will wilt and deteriorate more quickly than those that were harvested at the optimal time. This is due to a range of physiological changes that occur as flowers age; they may become less able to uptake water, lose their turgidity, and have a greater likelihood of developing diseases or infections, all of which contribute to a shortened lifespan once placed in a vase. Harvesting flowers at the right stage ensures they maintain their freshness and vibrancy for the longest period, which is critical for both floral arrangements and consumer satisfaction.