Responses of Caladium Tubers to Low, Nonfreezing Temperatures

Abstract

Abstract Storage of Caladium × hortulanum L. tubers at 5°C for 1 to 3 weeks resulted in an elevation in CO2 production when transferred to 22°. A decrease in storage temperature from 22° to 1° resulted in an increase in respiratory activity following transfer of tubers to 22°. The respiratory burst associated with low temperature storage was greatest following 24 hr at 22°, after which a decline in CO2 production was seen. Electrolyte leakage from ‘Carolyn Whorton’ tuber disks increased when tubers were held for either 3 weeks at 5° or 2 weeks at 1°, as compared to shorter durations of chilling or higher temperatures. Sprouting (days to emergence) of planted tubers was delayed following low temperature storage, as compared to tubers held at 22°. Although delayed, all tubers sprouted when held a maximum of 3 weeks at 5°, or 2 weeks at 1°.