Influence of Chemicals on Vase Life of Cymbidium Hybrid Variety Halley's Cormet Aurora

The postharvest life of cut flowers is often determined by water stress, incomplete bud opening, rapid loss of fresh weight, a large water deficit and low turgidity. The addition of chemicals including trace elements to holding solution has been tried with varied success to extend the vase life of cut flowers. The cut flowers of Cymbidium variety Halley's Comet Aurora exhibited a larger vase life when placed in solution containing Ca (NO,) 0.01–0.05%. The extended vase life in response to Ca ion was related to an increased water uptake into the cut flower, an improved water balance during opening and delay in loss of fresh weight. A deleterious effect of AgNO₃ marked with blackening of stems has been observed after 2–3 day. Further, AgNO₃ hastened the percentage of flower dislocation and wilting of stems.