Enzymatic changes, respiration rate and ethylene evolution associated with petal shedding in edouard rose (Rosa bourboniana Desp.) and red rose (Rosa centifolia L.)

Enzymatic changes, respiration rate and ethylene evolution associated with petal shedding in both the cultivars were studied and compared. The effect of certain pre-harvest sprays viz., BA -100 ppm, 2,4-D -100 ppm, Calccum aactate -0.5%, Boric acid-0.5%, Ocimum leaf extract and Panchagavya-5% and their combinations were also studied. None of the pre-harvest sprays were significant in improving the petal retention in the cultivars. However, significant petal retention was noticed in cv. Red rose (20.33 h) when compared to cv. Edouard rose (10.57 h). Increased activity of enzymes such as IAA oxidase and peroxidase, an increased evolution of ethylene and a decline in respiratory activity was also recorded between these two cultivars.