Effect of storage methods on storability of bulbs of tuberose cv. SUVASINI

Abstract

Tuberose bulbs must be stored for 6-8 weeks after harvest, sprouting occurs more readily when bulbs are stored at temperatures 18-23°C. Refrigerated cold storage is the best, requires huge capital. Storability of bulbs studied under different storage methods such as Gunny bags, Netted poly bags, Zero energy cool chamber and Heaping in open at room temperatures storage with seven pre treatments were studied. Bulbs collected from plots were treated with preharvest foliar application of GA 3 @250ppm stored in zero energy cool chamber was found as the best treatment combination based on minimum percentage of spoilage, sprouting and weight loss recorded after 60 days of storage. Based on economic analysis, bulbs collected from preharvest application of RDF 50 per cent in combination with poultry manure 25 per cent and neem cake 25 per cent stored in zero energy cool chamber was found to be highly profitable as it recorded high net returns and benefit cost ratio.