Effect of Biocide in Vase Solution on Scape Bending and Senescence in Cut Flower of Gerbera (Gerbera Jamesonii Bolus Ex. Hook)

Biocides in vase solution influenced the bio-chemical changes associated with senescence, decreased the leakage of ions and improved the postharvest life of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hook) cv. Yanana. The lowest scape bending curvature (6.75 degree), electrolyte leakage (24.632 %) and highest water potentials (− 7.43 bar) were recorded in 200 ppm 8- HQS treated cut gerbera. The higher levels of electrolyte leakage (30.16 %) and lower water potentials (− 11.54 bar) were recorded in the flowers held in distilled water (control), which resulted in highest scape bending curvature (67.50 degree). The flowers held in distilled water (control) and 25 ppm commercial bleach recorded lowest total protein content (17.09 mg/gfw) and total phenols (1.76 mg/g fw), respectively. The treatment 400 ppm 8 - HQS recorded highest total protein content (20.64 mg/g fw), while 200 ppm 8-HQS recorded highest total phenols (2.18 mg/g fw). The anthocyanins content was recorded highest in control (8.90 mg congo red/g fw) and lowest in 200 ppm 8-HQS (7.194 mg congo red/g fw). The cut gerberas held in 200 ppm 8-HQS registered longest vase life (8.28 day) with lowest electrolyte leakage, higher water potentials and higher levels of proteins and phenols in flower scapes compared to other treatments.