Phalaenopsis is the most valuable plant grown for exportation in Taiwan. The export value was approximately US$114 million in 2012. The cost for transportation by marine shipment is approximately 70% less than that by air. Shipping to the United States requires 25-30 days by marine shipment. Appropriate postharvest handling is necessary to reduce decay and maintain the high quality of plants.

 Plant treatment

Figure 1: Discontinuing watering for 2-4 weeks can reduce plant decay after transportation.

Appropriate transportation conditions and control

(1) Temperature and relative humidity

Figure 2: The conditions should be 18°C-20°C with an 85% relative humidity. Containers must be selected an loaded carefully.

(2) Packaging

Figure 3: Trailers are an effective packing method.

Figure 4: Boxes with ventilation in the top and bottom facilitate air flow in the container and reduce the relative humidity inside the box.

(3) Precooling

Figure 5: Precooling is beneficial when a carton box is used.