PWS Floral Design Practice Exam

Softened water is harmful for cut flowers because it contains high amounts of what?

Sugars Minerals Salts, usually Sodium Acids

Correct Answer:

Salts, usually Sodium

Explanation:

Softened water harms cut flowers because its higher salt level, especially sodium salts, interferes with the flowers’ ability to take up water. An ion-exchange softener swaps calcium and magnesium for sodium, boosting sodium in the water. The increased salt concentration raises osmotic pressure in the stem’s vascular system, making it harder for water to move up from the vase. With water uptake hindered, the flowers lose turgor and wilt sooner, shortening vase life. Sugars aren’t the issue here, and acids aren’t necessarily elevated, while the broader term “minerals” is vague—what matters is the elevated sodium salts that come from softened water.

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