Effect of Different Storage Treatments on Physiology and ‎Postharvest Performance in Cut Scapes of Three Iris Species

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The effect of different storage temperatures on senescence and postharvest performance in cut scapes of three Iris species (Iris germanica, Iris reticulata and Iris kashmiriana) was studied with the aim to develop a cost-effective storage protocol so as to bring out the transportation of these cut flowers. The scapes were subjected to two different storage treatments-dry storage and wet storage. For dry storage, the scapes were wrapped in moistened filter papers and kept at different storage temperatures [RT (20±2oC), 10and 5oC] for 72 hours. For wet storage, the scapes were kept in buckets containing distilled water (DW) and kept at different storage temperatures [RT (20±2oC), 10oC and 5oC] for 72 hours. After 72 hours storage, the scapes were transferred to flasks containing either DW or sucrose 0.15 M (SUC). Storage of buds for 72 hours at 5oC, followed by transfer to DW and SUC improved longevity in all the three species. Cold storage treatment before transfer to holding solutions improved floral diameter, membrane integrity and maintained higher fresh and dry mass of flowers, sugar content, and soluble proteins. In all the three species studied, enhanced vase life was found associated with the decrease in the total phenolic content of the perianth tissue. In conclusion, our results suggest that wet and dry storage of premature scapes of Irisesfor 72 hours at 5oC, and placing them in sucrose improves the cut flower performance and can be used as effective postharvest storage treatments for these beautiful cut flowers.