Effect of post harvest application of biocides on water relations and vase life of cut gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hook.)

Post harvest application of biocides showed significant influence on water relations and vase life of cut gerbera cultivar ‘Yanara’. The biocide, 8-HQS-200 ppm recorded highest water uptake (8.137 g/f), transpirational loss of water (8.260 g/f) and water balance (4.877 g/f), whereas the lowest water uptake (5.291), transpirational loss of water (6.680 g/f) was registered in control and water balance (3.466 g/f) in commercial bleach (CB) 50 ppm. The cut gerberas held in the antimicrobial compound, 8-HQS 200 ppm recorded the highest (−7.430 bars) water potential, however, lowest (−11.452) was registered in the cut gerberas held in distilled water (control). The optical density of the vase solution was the lowest (0.032) in 8-HQS 200 ppm and control recorded the highest (0.130) optical density. The biocide, 8-HQS 200 ppm with better water relation showed the highest (8.28 days) vase life compared to control (4.43 days).