Annals of Biological Research
Abstract
Author(s): Geoffrey Tawanda Mupandanyama, Tsvakai Mushayabasa and James Chitamba
Prolonged vase life of a cut flower sorely depends on the post-harvest treatment and handling given to it. There are many factors both biological and man-made that result in shorter vase life and reduction of quality of rose cut stems. A laboratory experiment was carried to evaluate the potential of post-harvest treatments Biox 5000 (chlorine dioxide) and HTH (calcium hypochlorite) on the quality and potential of prolonging vase life of Frisco rose cultivars. The experiment was arranged as a 3?????2 factorial laid in a completely randomised design (CRD). There were 6 treatments replicated 3 times to give 18 experimental units. The 2 factors were postharvest solution and hydration period. The postharvest solution factor had 3 levels: Biox solution, HTH solution and tap water whilst the hydration period factor had 2 levels: 2 hours and 4 hours. Numbers of fully open, half open, stems at bud stage, stems with botrytis spores and bent neck stems were recorded and evaluated. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in number of fully open stems, stems with botrytis and stem straightness. However, there were no significant differences (P>0.05) on number of half open stems and stems that remained at bud stage. It was concluded that Biox 5000 had an effect on stem straightness, disease incidence and petal openness. Recommendations of Biox 5000 at 200 ml were advised to be used as a standard post-harvest treatment to maintain quality and vase life of Frisco rose cultivar.
