Abstract

Senescence of lower leaves of Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum Thunb.) was previously shown to be delayed with application of the growth regulators, gibberellic acid (GA3) and benzyladenine (BA). This study was done to determine the physiological effects of GA3 and BA in relation to the delay of leaf senescence. Foliar application with 500 ppm BA or GA3 delayed chlorosis and lowered respiration rate in Easter lily leaves. A combination of 500 ppm BA and 500 ppm GA3 was more effective than the individual application of each. Gibberellic acid, BA, or their combination before cold storage resulted in delayed chlorosis and lowered respiration following removal from cold storage. Treatment with growth regulators after cold storage was less effective. Senescence of leaves was not associated with ethylene since ethylene production by leaves was undetectable by gas chromatograph. In addition, pulsing or continuous treatment with silver thiosulphate (STS), an inhibitor of ethylene synthesis, did not delay foliar chlorosis. Analysis of carbohydrate levels in Easter lily leaves treated with GA3, BA, or their combination may contribute to the understanding of the physiological effects of these two growth regulators.

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