• Optimal storage temperature: 41 to 46°F. 
• In an effort to prevent botrytis some growers supply their products in water and keep them out of refrigeration. This prevents condensation from developing on the flower petals. Gerbera in boxes are often placed in refrigeration as the boxes help control temperature fluctuation. 
• A low temperature is important because it: 
  a. prevents further stem growth.
  b. limits evaporation. 
  c. combats the development of fungal and bacterial infection. 
• At the auction, the Gerbera boxes are placed upside down. This is done to prevent stems from curving as a consequence of continued growth, ultimately helping to keep the stems straight. 
• For longer storage periods it makes sense to store the boxes upside down. 
• Lots affected by botrytis can lose their entire sales and ornamental value in a matter of days. The greatest danger is at points where flowers overlap. Keep an eye open for this during storage. Optimal storage temperature: 41 to 46°F. 
• Upon arrival store the boxes upside down to prevent further stem development. If you leave the boxes upright, the flowers will continue to grow and push against the top. This results in curved stems. 
• Hang the flowers, in their holder, in a bucket of water immediately upon arrival and allow them to hydrate for at least 4 hours.   If the flowers are longer than the bucket, use an extension unit. Make sure the stems do not hang too far into the water and also add a few drops of flower food to the water to kill any bacteria. 
• The flowers can be used when the stems are hard and have been properly hydrated. 
• If the stems have not absorbed a lot of water, it is advisable to wire them. 
• Remove any junctures of the flower stalk with the crown, as these absorb virtually no water.
  
• Always use a clean vase with fresh water and cut flower food. 
  Using the thumb and index finger take hold of the flower at its base and carefully remove it from the box. Never pull the Gerbera out of the box by its head. This could cause the ray florets to be pulled out of the flower base. Any damage will become visible the following day.   
• Damage to the ray florets can also occur when Gerbera are being processed. 
• Gerbera have a fairly soft stem and are easily damaged by cutting with pruning shears. Research has shown that cutting the ends of the stems off at an angle using a very sharp knife can double vase life.  NOTE: use a knife, not a scissors or shears and make sure the knife is sharp. This is also a handy tip to pass along to your customers.                 

Gerbera is sensitive to ethylene. Keep away from ripening fruit and exhaust gases, which release the aging hormone Ethylene.

More information:
Gerbera mini Suri - novelty July 2008
Gerbera 'Ambiance' - novelty April 2007
Gerbera Isabelle - novelty March 2005
Gerbera 'Daikiri' - novelty September 2004