Change in ethylene production and ACC content of potted carnation in response to anti-ethylene treatments

Abstract

The quality of potted carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) is often lowered during transportation and by indoor environmental conditions. We tested the ability of aminooxyacetic acid (AOA), benzyladenine (BA), and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) to improve post-production flower quality of potted carnation plants. Maximum plant longevity (15 days) was obtained using 0.6 µl L -1 of 1-methylcyclopropene. As compared to control plants, ethylene production was significantly decreased by aminooxyacetic acid at concentrations over 100 mg L−1, benzyladenine at 30 mg L -1 , and 1-methylcyclopropene at 0.6 or 1.2 µl L -1 . A significant increase in ACC content was observed in 1-MCP treated potted plants compared with the control. However, the decline in 1aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) content was observed after using 100 or 150 mg L-1 AOA. A significant increase in Superoxide dismutase, Catalase and peroxidase enzyme activities were noticed when plants were treated 0.6 mg L -1 1-MCP. Use of 1-methylcyclopropene (0.6 or 1.2 µl L -1 ), aminooxyacetic acid (100 or 150 mg L−1), and benzyladenine (30 mg L−1) significantly decreased H2O2 concentration and superoxide radical.