Effects of pretreatment on the cut flowers quarantined by EB radiation

Abstract

Fresh cut flowers including yellow and white chrysanthemum (chrysanthemum sp) and red carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L) were electron beam irradiated as quarantine treatment. The results showed that the irradiated flowers could meet the phytosanitary requirements in the international trading. In this study, the cut flowers were pretreated with the commercial preservative and sugar solutions in order to increase their radio-tolerance and expand their vase-life. The pretreatment has also reduced the weight loss, browning rate of leaves, and brightness of the irradiated flowers. The results revealed that the commercial quality of the irradiated cut flowers pretreated with 2% glucose solution 2 hours, then 0.024% silver thiosulphate (STS) solution for further 2 hours was remained after storage at 4-6oC. Pre-treatment with 2% glucose and 0.024% STS before irradiation at 400 Gy and 600 Gy was chosen as the best way for improving the raditain tolerance of the cut flowers. The vase-lifes of the irradiated cut flowers are 6 days for yellow chrysanthemum; 8 days for white chrysanthemum and 8-10 days for red carnation similar to non-irradition ones.