FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE VASE LIFE OF CUT FLOWERS

1.Exposure to ethylene is the precursor to senescence of flowers. A flower that is exposed to, or is producing high levels of ethylene will age faster, thus reducing the enjoyment of its beauty by the customer.

Exposure to ethylene occurs during storage. Never store different flowers or other agricultural produce in the same store; they produce varying levels of ethylene and their sensitivity also varies.

2. Yellowing of leaves- This condition is typically observed in Alstroemeria. Yellowed leaves reduce the appeal of cut flowers. Yellowing can be delayed by applying plant growth hormones like Florissant 100 or 200 that contain silver thiosulfate to facilitate the inhibition of ethylene production; consequently increasing vase life.

3. Insufficient nutrients

4. Insufficient uptake of water- water is responsible for the turgidity of the cells, therefore when a flower does not take sufficient water; its petals will be droopy. A flower that uptakes sufficient water appears fresh healthy and beautiful

5. Growth/ infection by micro-organisms

The end of vase life of a cut flower is marked by one of a number of factors including

1. Wilting of the flower

2. Wilting of the foliage

3. Shattering i.e. loss of flowers/florets

4. Ethylene related senescence

5. Non ethylene senescence

6. Leaf yellowing