EFFECT OF SOME CHEMICALS ON KEEPING QUALITY AND VASELIFE OF TUBEROSE (POLIANTHES TUBEROSA L.) CUT FLOWERS

Abstract

Cut spikes of tuberose were kept in CaCl2.2H2O, AgNO3, ascorbic acid
and Tri-Miltox Forte (a fungicide) solutions with various concentrations to see
their effects on keeping quality and vase–life of the flowers. A control (tap water)
and a standard preservative were also included in the experiment. AgNO3,
CaCl2.2H2O and Tri-Miltox Forte delayed flower opening as compared to ascorbic
acid and standard preservative, but stood at par with control. CaCl2.2H2O at
concentrations of 750 to 1250 ppm and Tri-Miltox Forte at 1500 ppm resulted in
minimum flower wilting after six days. AgNO3 was found to have adverse effects
on fragrance of the flowers. Water uptake by the spikes was more in those kept
in standard preservative and CaCl2.2H2O 750 and 1000 ppm solutions. However,
AgNO3 50 and 200 ppm solutions resulted in maximum vase-life (8 days) of cut
flowers. Percentages of flowers opened and wilted were significantly negatively
correlated with the vase-life. However, vase-life was not correlated with fragrance
of the flowers and net water uptake.