Vase Life Extension of Rose Cut Flowers (Rosa Hybirida) as Influenced by Silver Nitrate and Sucrose Pulsing

Abstract

Abstract: Problem statement: This experiment was carried out in the laboratory of the Department of the Biology, Taif University, Saudi Arabia. Approach: The study was conducted to investigated the silver nitrate (AgNO₃) and sucrose at different concentration on rose cut flowers longevity, which determined on the basis of wilting, chlorophyll retention and carbohydrate degradation .The treatments were, water control, 20, 30 or 50 ppm AgNO₃ and sucrose at 1,2or 3% w/v. Results: The results showed, flower vase life was prolonged by all AgNO₃ treatments. The best concentration was 30 ppm .The effect was further improved when AgNO₃ was combined with 3% sucrose, which recorded the best vase life compared to other concentrations of sucrose .The per cent of wilting was minimized as result of using this combined treatment However the per cent of wilting increased with the increase in concentrations of AgNO₃ and complete wilting occurred after 10, 8 and 7 days when treated with 20, 30 and 50 ppm of AgNO₃, respectively, while sucrose shortened the period to reach wilting. Also AgNO₃ at 30 ppm retarded the chlorophyll as well as carbohydrate degradation during the postharvest life. The experiments were repeated three times with three replicates and a completely randomized design had been used. The experiments extended from February, 2006-September, 2008. The difference between means was performed using Duncan multiple range test at 0.05 levels. Conclusion: A significant improvement in vase life of rose cut flowers was occurred when treated with 30 ppm (AgNO₃) more effects when combined with 3% (w/v) sucrose, so we recommended that to use the previous treatments with this concentrations for a long vase life and commercial productions.