Assessment of Preservative Solutions for Reducing <i>Botrytis cinerea</i> Infection in Cut Roses

Abstract

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic pathogen that significantly reduced the postharvest quality and longevity of cut roses. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of nano silver, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and salicylic acid on B. cinerea infection in cut rose flowers. Cut ‘Revival’ roses were treated with nano silver, NaOCl, salicylic acid, and distilled water, and simultaneously held in the solutions. Subsequently, the cut flowers were sprayed with B. cinerea solution and held under export conditions for 4 days. The results showed that nano silver was the most effective treatment in suppressing B. cinerea growth in cut roses during vase life. Nano silver effectively extended the vase life of cut roses by 2.3 days, compared with non-treated flowers. The addition of nano silver also enhanced water uptake and sustained the water balance and fresh weight of the cut rose flowers. Our results indicated that nano silver is an effective treatment solution to inhibit B. cinerea infection and improve postharvest quality and longevity of cut rose flowers for export.