Effects of pulsing solution, packaging material and passive refrigeration storage system on vase life and quality of cut rose flowers

Abstract

The experiment consisted of four pulsing solutions (silver thiosulfate + Chrysal clear solution (RVB), silver thiosulfate + 8-hydroxyquinoline sulphate, silver thiosulfate + Chrysal clear solution + hydroxyquinoline sulphate and H₂O), two packaging types (cardboard box and box with polyethylene bag) and four storage period intervals (0, 2, 3 and 4 weeks) under passive refrigeration system. The treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design and four replications. The storage room was maintained at 20°C and 60% relative humidity. The three-way interaction between pulsing solution, packaging and storage period were significant (P < 0.01) on flower bud opening stage and leaf quality. Two-way interaction between pulsing solution and storage period was also significant (P < 0.01) on Botrytis incidence, maximum flower bud opening and vase life. Storage time significantly (P < 0.001) affected the solution uptake, relative fresh weights and TSS contents of petals. Passive refrigeration system and pulsed with mixtures of silver thiosulfate, Chrysal clear solution and 8-hydroxyquinoline sulphate were maintained a fresh-like quality of flowers. Thus, growers can transport roses from Africa to Europe using ships equipped with passive refrigeration system without mush reduction in vase life and quality of flowers.

Key words: Rose flower, vase life, pulsing, packaging, passive refrigeration system.