Influence of Precooling on Postharvest Life and Respiration Rate of Raktagandha Cut Roses

Precooling is an important postharvest operation, which brings down the respiration rate and ultimately enhances the postharvest life and quality of cut flowers. In the present investigation, the precooling of cut roses by cold storage at 4°C for 24 h and spraying ice cold water for 45 minutes over the buds and stems were found best techniques for removal of field heat. These two treatment also reduced the respiration rate of the cut roses significantly over control flowers. Cold storage of cut flowers at 4°C reduced the maximum respiration rate and also enhanced the vase life and flower quality.