ISHS Acta Horticulturae 683: V International Symposium on New Floricultural Crops
ECHEVERIA GIBBIFLORA D. C. - A NEW ORNAMENTAL PLANT FROM MEXICO. I. VASE LIFE* |
| Authors: | M.W. Borys, H. Leszczyñska-Borys, J.L. Galván |
| Keywords: | Postharvest, water losses, hydration, flowering, dry-wet vase, dry storage, window exposition |
| Abstract:
Experiments were conducted with cut flowering stems of Estrella del Coral (Coral Star) (Echeveria gibbiflora DC). The aim was to explore the feasibility of keeping the stems in dry or wet vase and storing the stems under dry conditions, wrapped in paper in a semi-dark room. Later, the dry stored stems were placed in a dry or wet vase. The basal part of the stem showed the highest losses in water with ensuing collapse of the stem; which was more frequent in the southern window. The bracts did not modify the water status of flowering stems. Their removal at harvest is recommended. The daily water loss was low and varied from 1.0 to 3.6 g in four weeks. The hydration of dry matter (g H20 g-1 m. s.) in the dry stored flowering stem was: stem apex>lateral inflorescence>stem base, whereas in freshly harvested material stem base>stem apex>lateral inflorescences. The number of flowers opened in five weeks varied from 9 to 44 per stem. The average number of open flowers per one lateral, in one week was 1.2. The aesthetic value of the flowering stem is determined by the number of flowers, closed buds, closed flowers, peduncles appearing weekly per stem and the red color of the stem. The vase life is limited by the relatively early collapse of the stem. The stored stems should be kept vertically. The dry storage conditions should be determined in the future. | |
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