The water should be cool because flowers rehydrate more effectively in cool water than warm. Overpacking in the carton results in damage during transport and therefore must be avoided. Various conventions are followed for packing anthuriums. Normally, the flowers are packed in multiples of 12 to permit sales by the dozen. Large trays hold 24 extra-large flowers or 36 large, with four trays packed per carton.
Trays hold the flowers in position to restrict movement and mechanical damage.
Cartons are lined with an impervious polyethylene sheet, which is folded over to restrict air entry. Another practice is to pack dry flowers with enough moist, shredded paper between layers to cushion the flowers and minimize damage and desiccation. Stems may be packed with sheets of polyethylene placed between them and polytene blocks situated between the spathe and spadix. Alternatively, the stems can be placed in small plastic bags that close when the rest of the bag is pulled between the spathe and spadix. To help prevent desiccation and to extend vase life, some producers attach to each stem a small plastic bottle containing water and preservative.