Ahead of Valentine’s Day, American research from The University of Texas at Arlington presents innovative technological solutions designed to significantly extend the lifespan of roses and other cut flowers.
The study is led by Professor Rasika Dias, focusing on slowing the effects of ethylene — a naturally occurring plant hormone in gaseous form that accelerates plant aging and reduces commercial flower quality.
Because ethylene spreads easily during storage and transportation, it triggers petal drop, bud wilting and shorter vase life.
“Ethylene is a gas, and precisely because it is a gas, it spreads everywhere, which makes it difficult to control. It plays a vital role in nature — from fruit ripening to leaf drop and seed germination,” notes Dr. Dias.
In laboratory trials, approximately 30 freshly cut flowers are divided into three groups: untreated, treated with existing commercial products and treated with newly developed compounds. Researchers monitor longevity, petal drop and visual freshness. Two compounds show particularly promising results.
While 1-methylcyclopropene is currently used in the industry, the research aims to develop more effective, non-toxic and operationally efficient alternatives.
The findings are strategically important for greenhouse floriculture, wholesale markets, export operations and retail supply chains.
Meta description: American research from The University of Texas at Arlington presents advanced ethylene control technologies to extend the life of roses and cut flowers, reduce losses and improve efficiency in flower supply chains.
Tags: American research, ethylene control, roses, cut flowers, vase life extension, postharvest innovation, greenhouse floriculture, flower export, supply chain resilience, sustainable flower production
Source: The University of Texas at Arlington (USA)
The study is led by Professor Rasika Dias, focusing on slowing the effects of ethylene — a naturally occurring plant hormone in gaseous form that accelerates plant aging and reduces commercial flower quality.
Because ethylene spreads easily during storage and transportation, it triggers petal drop, bud wilting and shorter vase life.
“Ethylene is a gas, and precisely because it is a gas, it spreads everywhere, which makes it difficult to control. It plays a vital role in nature — from fruit ripening to leaf drop and seed germination,” notes Dr. Dias.
In laboratory trials, approximately 30 freshly cut flowers are divided into three groups: untreated, treated with existing commercial products and treated with newly developed compounds. Researchers monitor longevity, petal drop and visual freshness. Two compounds show particularly promising results.
While 1-methylcyclopropene is currently used in the industry, the research aims to develop more effective, non-toxic and operationally efficient alternatives.
The findings are strategically important for greenhouse floriculture, wholesale markets, export operations and retail supply chains.
Meta description: American research from The University of Texas at Arlington presents advanced ethylene control technologies to extend the life of roses and cut flowers, reduce losses and improve efficiency in flower supply chains.
Tags: American research, ethylene control, roses, cut flowers, vase life extension, postharvest innovation, greenhouse floriculture, flower export, supply chain resilience, sustainable flower production
Source: The University of Texas at Arlington (USA)