Effect of ethanol plus sucrose on the vase-life of cut rose (Rosa hybrida L.)

Abstract

SummaryThe effect of ethanol and sucrose on the vase-life of cut rose (Rosa hybrida L.) flowers was studied. Experiments were conducted between 2004 – 2007 on two popular cultivars, ‘Grand Gala’ and ‘First Red’. The combined application of 3% (v/v) ethanol and 3% (w/v) sucrose gave the longest vase-life in both cultivars. However, sucrose alone did not increase the vase-life of ‘Grand Gala’. The rate of water uptake was higher in treated flowers, and lasted longer compared to controls. A negative relationship was observed between abscisic acid (ABA) concentrations in petals and flower stem water potential. The concentration of ABA in the petals of ethanol-treated flowers was low. ABA concentrations increased with flower age, while the combined treatment of ethanol plus sucrose inhibited this increase by ameliorating water stress by a prolonged water uptake and by maintaining a higher flower stem water potential. Ethanol plus sucrose treatment also suppressed ethylene production, suggesting a role in delaying ageing.