Effect of phenylalanine application on preventing neck bending and extending vase life in Gerbera jamesonii L.

This study aimed to assess the effect of phenylalanine in preventing neck bending and extending the vase life of Gerbera jamesonii L. A two-factor experiment utilized a completely randomized design with 15 treatments, specifically including foliar applications of phenylalanine at concentrations of 0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg/L, with intervals of every 5, 10, and 15 days. After 35 days, agronomic parameters were assessed, including flower diameter, branch circumference, and vase life. In addition, physiological and biochemical analyses were conducted, including flower stem firmness, lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose content, and the activity of enzymes involved in lignin synthesis. Results of statistical analysis through Duncan’s test indicated that phenylalanine treatment significantly enhanced flower quality by increasing enzyme activity, particularly phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, leading to higher levels of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin levels. Applications every 5–10 days at phenylalanine concentrations of 150–200 mg/L produced the best results, which included increased flower diameter, firmer stems, and a 10-day vase life extension. These results demonstrate the potential of phenylalanine to improve post-harvest quality in floriculture.