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Indian shot (Canna indica) is a multipurpose ornamental plant, and due to its foliage value, its leaves are used in flower arrangements. The leaves of Indian shot have a short life after harvesting and quickly turn yellow and deteriorate. This research was done in the form of a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with four replications. The experimental factors included three levels of benzylaminopurine (0, 10 and 20 mg/liter), four levels of antibacterial compounds including; silver nitrate (20 mg/liter), thyme essentioa oil (50 mg/liter), savory essential oil (50 mg/liter) and control, and two levels of the ambient temperature (10°C and 20°C). The results indicated that keeping the cut leaves of Canna indica flower at low temperature (10°C) was superior to high temperature (20°C) in all treatments and the lowest applied concentration of cytokinin (10 mg/liter) was more effective compared to higher concentration. Also, in terms of antibacterial compounds, the use of natural essential oils (thyme and savory), especially savory essential oil, was more effective than silver nitrate. The highest activity of enzymes peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and proline accumulation and the lowest amount of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde content were gained in the interaction treatment of 10°C, benzylaminopurine 10 mg/liter and savory essential oil (50 mg/liter). Therefore, the most desirable leaves with the longest vase life period and visual quality (33 days) were observed in this treatment, compared to the control (8 days). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the floriculture trade, cut pepper (Capsicum annuum) stems are typically grown for their fruit to add color contrast to the foliage and blossoms of conventional floral arrangements. Stems are commonly stripped of foliage because leaves wilt rapidly. Three divergent plant types and commercial hydration protection spray products were evaluated to identify effective vase life treatments and new pepper lines that combine both fruit and foliar interest with an acceptable postharvest cut stem life. Three inbred US Department of Agriculture pepper breeding lines with a tall vigorous growth habit and black foliage were selected for evaluation as cut stems. Line 190-2 produced upright, tabasco-like fruit; 191-1 produced upright, clustered, round fruit; and 196-1 was fruitless. Three commercial spray treatments Crowning Glory (FLCG), Finishing Touch, and Aqua Finish Clear (AFC) were evaluated on treated cut stems stored at 10 and 23 °C. The pepper breeding line had the greatest influence on cut stem foliage and fruit vase life. The fruitless line, 196-1 exhibited an extended vase life in comparison with fruited lines. Cold storage extended the vase life of cut stems. FLCG reduced foliage vase life at 23 °C, and AFC extended foliage vase life of the fruitless line 196-1. Relative to foliage, fruit exhibited greater resistance to desiccation, with glossier fruit of 191-1 desiccating more rapidly than fruit of 190-2. Similar trends were noted when cut stems were stored at 10 °C for 7 days and moved to 23 °C. However, in 2022 trials, the vase life of 190-2 was shortened, and those of 191-1 and 196-1 were extended, highlighting the influence of preharvest factors on vase life. The results demonstrate that cut stems of new pepper lines with vigorous upright growth habits and black-pigmented foliage, together with diverse fruit morphology, provide innovative possibilities for stunning cut flower arrangements.

Influence of spectral manipulation of light using coloured nets and seasonal variation on cut foliage yield and quality of Philodendron ‘Xanadu’ was evaluated under red, green, white and black coloured shade nets permitting light intensities ranging from 240.50 to 370μ mol m-2 s-1 (75% shade net), for two consecutive years from 2014-16, at ICARIIHR, Bengaluru. The plants grown under white shade net (75% shade) resulted in higher foliage production plant-1month-1 (14.53) and were on par with those grown under green shade net. The quality of the cut foliage in plants grown under white shade net with respect to stalk length (24.91 cm) and width of the lamina (5.19 cm) was on par with those under green and black shade nets. Coloured shade nets did not influence the vase life of the cut foliage. Developmental stages of the foliage under the different coloured nets have indicated that leaves attained the harvestable maturity stage at 29.92 days post-emergence under white shade. Cultivation of Philodendron ‘Xanadu’ under white shade resulted in maximum cut foliage yield and quality.

Chlorophyll fluorescence (ChlF) is a non-invasive technique that can be potentially used in postharvest research to gain useful information on early responses to postharvest stresses. This study was conducted to validate the application of ChlF transient analysis in determining the postharvest changes in photosynthetic apparatus in three ornamental foliage species, i.e., Cordyline fruticosa ‘Willy’s Gold’ and ‘Rubra’, Dracaena sanderiana ‘White’, and Nephrolepis exaltata. Salicylic acid (100 and 300 mg·L−1), glucose (10 g·L−1), and their combinations were used as holding solutions with control treatment (distilled water) at room temperature (25±2°C). Vase life was evaluated using OJIP analysis. OJIP parameters, i.e., specific energy fluxes per reaction center (ABS/RC, TR/RC, ET/RC, and DI/RC), flux ratios (maximum quantum yield of primary photochemistry-φPo), electron transport efficiency (ψo), and quantum yield of electron transport (φEo), and performance index (PI) were recorded every other day, using a fluorometer (FluorPen 100). Leaf chlorophyll contents of all species and anthocyanin contents of two cordyline cultivars were determined. Data were subjected to ANOVA in a completely randomized design. Mean separation was done by DMRT (p ≤ 0.05). Clear variations in ChlF were observed in every foliage species with the time. OJIP analysis showed species-depended variations. The higher ABS/RC and DI/RC were recorded for D. sanderiana and N. exaltata compared to the PI of those species. At the end of the experiment, the chlorophyll contents were decreased, while anthocyanin contents were increased. Consequently, chlorophyll fluorescence changes in photosynthetic apparatus can be used for the prediction of the postharvest stresses and longevity of cut foliage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An evaluation of formulated Bio-PF with the active ingredient of Pseudomonas fluorescens to reduce synthetic fungicide usage in controlling soil borne disease in leather leaf fern under different shelters was studied. The research was conducted at the experimental field of the Indonesian Ornamental Crops Research Institute (IOCRI) from January to December 2015. Different concentrations of Bio-PF were singly and/nor alternately applied with two different synthetic fungicides were applied on leather leaf plants under UV plastic + 70% black-net and 70% black-net shelters. The results showed that the average disease intensity was higher in 70% black-net shelter. Weekly alternate-application of Bio-PF 5 + Carbendazim & Mancozeb and single Carbendazim & Mancozeb gave lower disease intensity than other treatments with the highest percentage of suppression. These two treatments also improved yield in terms of number and proportion of the preferred grade of harvested leaves. Combined Bio-PF 5 + Carbendazim & Mancozeb gave longer vase life and the application reduced synthetic fungicide usage in controlling the respected disease. In term of synthetic fungicides, Carbendazim & Mancozeb gave more consistent effects on disease suppression, plant growth and foliage production than Asilbensolar & Mancozeb.

Influence of spectral manipulation of light using coloured nets and seasonal variation on cut foliage yield and quality of Philodendron 'Xanadu' was evaluated under red, green, white and black coloured shade nets permitting light intensities ranging from 240.50 to 370µ mol m-2 s-1 (75% shade net), for two consecutive years from 2014-16, at ICARIIHR, Bengaluru. The plants grown under white shade net (75% shade) resulted in higher foliage production plant-1month-1 (14.53) and were on par with those grown under green shade net. The quality of the cut foliage in plants grown under white shade net with respect to stalk length (24.91 cm) and width of lamina (5.19 cm) was on par with those under green and black shade nets. Coloured shade nets did not influence vase life of the cut foliage. Developmental stages of the foliage under the different coloured nets have indicated that leaves attained the harvestable maturity stage at 29.92 days post emergence under white shade. Cultivation of Philodendron 'Xanadu' under white shade resulted in maximum cut foliage yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leather leaf fern [Rumohra adiantiformis (G forst) Ching.] was grown under red, green, white and black coloured shade nets permitting light intensities ranging from 240.50 to 370 μ mol m-2 s-1 (75% shade net), for two consecutive years from 2014-16, at ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru. The influence of coloured nets and the season on cut foliage yield and quality were evaluated. Developmental stages of the fronds under the different coloured nets were also studied. Fronds attained the harvestable maturity stage at 33 days post emergence under red shade net, whereas it took 31.5 days under green shade net. The plants cultivated under red shade net (75% shade) resulted in higher foliage production/plant/ month (6.60) while it was on par with black shade nets in terms of quality of the foliage with respect to length of lamina (24.90 cm) and frond width (17.77 cm). The vase life of the cut foliage grown under red shade net was 47.6 days. Cultivation of leather leaf fern under red shade resulted in maximum cut foliage yield, quality and post harvest life.

Twelve plots of 15 m2 planted with an indeterminate variety of mulberry (Morus alba) with wide leaves underwent periodic cuts every 30, 60, 90 and 120 days to study, according to a random block design, the nutritional value of mulberry foliage meal by the technique of in vitro ileal (pepsin/pancreatin) and fecal digestibility. Cell wall content and N bound to that wall increased significantly (P = 0.004) with the cut age while the N content tended to decrease (P = 0.059). The ileal digestibility of organic matter and N decreased from 68.1 and 59.4 % to 44.2 and 30.0 % (P <0.05), respectively, in samples of 30 cutting days up to others of 120 days (P <0.01). Similarly, fecal digestibility of DM and organic matter went from 66.7 and 68.0 % to 45.3 and 51.0 % (P <0.01), respectively. Cutting age exerts a determining influence on the nutritional value of mulberry foliage meal provided to pigs, which worsens as cut frequency decreases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Nano-silver pretreatment extended vase life of cut gardenia foliage. • Nano-silver pretreatment delayed wilting of cut gardenia foliage. • Nano-silver pretreatment improved water relations of cut gardenia foliage. • Nano-silver pretreatment inhibited bacterial xylem blockage of cut gardenia foliage. • Nano-silver mostly remained in stem-ends where it exerted its antibacterial effect. Abstract Gardenias (Gardenia jasminoides Ellis var. 'fortuniana') have commercial importance as cut foliage but are prone to severe postharvest water deficit and quick wilting. Herein, we investigated the efficacy of pretreatment with nano-silver (NS), a strong antibacterial agent, in enhancing water relations and the vase life of cut gardenia foliage. Compared with the deionized-water controls, pretreatment with NS at 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mg L−1 for 24 h significantly extended the vase life of cut gardenias. The most effective NS concentration was 15 mg L−1, which promoted the longest (15.2 days) vase life extension, i.e., 310.2% of that of the control treatment. In addition, pretreatment with 15 mg L−1 NS effectively delayed wilting by maintaining a higher water balance value and relative fresh weight when compared with untreated cut foliage. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that these higher values were due to an improved water uptake as a result of the alleviation of bacterial xylem blockage at the stem-ends. Furthermore, Ag concentration was remarkably higher at the stem-ends of NS-pretreated cut gardenias than in any other tissues. Overall, these results demonstrate that NS pretreatment effectively inhibited bacterial growth at the cut stem-ends, and helped maintain a favorable water balance, thereby delaying wilting and extending the vase life of cut gardenias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great need to find cut foliage species suitable for use in floral displays for florists and floral designers. Cut foliages which stay green for long time, retain their appearance and which do not shed leaves or berries are desired characteristics for cut greens in floral displays. Ferns and Asparagus are popularly used in flower arrangements because of its year-round availability and good vase life. Ferns, apart from its use as a durable cut foliage crop for use in floral designs, also serve as a good ground cover for shady locations. It can also be planted in pots since potted ferns are commercially used in various landscape projects. Ferns, with their marvellous foliage and ample ecological adaptability, are of high significance in urban landscaping. Large scale collection of ferns from forests by visitors and local people for ornamental purpose, medicinal purpose and during excursions increases the pressure on these plants. Also, a large number of fern species is lost due to depletion of natural forest vegetation day by day. The vast potential in the west coast ecosystem like rich gene pool, natural habitat of many fern species, superiority of many of the species in terms of desirable foliage traits, suitable agro climatic conditions and fast growing domestic and export demand for cut foliages does not seem to be fully tapped. Hence conservation of biodiversity of these plants is the need of the hour. Extensive investigations were conducted during 2014-15 to trace and explore different cut foliage species comprising Pteridophytes (Ferns and fern allies) in the West Coast regions of India by the team of researchers at ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa. During the study, West Coast regions of India were visited, photographed and planting materials were collected and the locality was mapped using GPS technology. As an outcome of the botanical survey, 18 different cut foliage species comprising Pteridophytes (Ferns and fern allies) were collected, conserved and evaluated for their suitability for use as cut foliages or fillers. Significant variation was noticed among cut foliages used in the study for various morphological and leaf quality traits. Cut foliages like Nephrolepis exaltata, Nephrolepis biserrata furcans, Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii' and 'Sprengeri' compacta are appropriate as fillers. Pteris vittata fronds can serve an ideal foundation for various arrangements. Asparagus densiflorus sprengeri can be used as cascading focal points in large designs and serves as excellent greenery in delicate flower bouquets. Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii' and Nephrolepis biserrata furcans with their dense growth provides a vertical accent to floral designs. The commercial cultivation of these cut foliage species can serve as a highly profitable enterprise for improving the livelihood of farmers of West Coast regions. Results of this study reflect the aptness of different cut foliages to function for various purposes in floristry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Florists’ greens are becoming increasingly important in contemporary floristry. Numerous studies conducted on cut flowers have led to the development of technologies for their post-harvest handling; however, in the case of florists’ greens they are still insufficient. Moreover, the extensive range of florists’ greens lacks leaves and the leafy culms of grasses. The aim of this study was to determine the post-harvest longevity of the leaves and leafy culms of ornamental grasses conditioned in water solutions of gibberellic acid and 8-hydroxyquinoline sulphate. The post-harvest longevity of leaves was examined in cultivars of the following species: Glyceria maxima Hartm. ‘Variegata’, Miscanthus sinensis Thunb. ‘Zebrinus’ and Spartina pectinata Link. ‘Aureomarginata’. The post-harvest longevity of leafy culms was investigated in Alopecurus pratensis L. ‘Aureovariegatus’, Chasmanthium latifolium Michx., Miscanthus sinensis Thunb. ‘Silberspinne’, Pennisetum alopecuroides L. and Phalaris arundinacea L. ‘Picta’. Conditioning in gibberellic acid had a positive effect on the post-harvest longevity and fresh weight loss and the index of leaf greenness of leaves in the case of Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’, while conditioning in 8-hydroxyquinoline sulphate improved fresh weight loss and the index of leaf greenness of the leafy culms of Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’, Pennisetum alopecuroides and the leaves of Glyceria maxima ‘Variegata’.

The leaves of Zantedeschia and Hosta are used as florist greens in different floral arrangements. The most efficient postharvest treatment for cut foliage is the use of growth regulators, which prolong their vase life by delaying degradative changes occurring in leaves, especially proteolysis. Cycloheximide (CHI) is one of the protein synthesis inhibitors, blocking the enzymes responsible for decreasing membrane integrity, a phenomenon hastening senescence. The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of CHI and benzyladenine (BA) or gibberellic acid (GA3) on the longevity of cut foliage in hosta (Hosta sp.) cultivars and Ethiopian calla (Zantedeschia aethiopica) and to follow the changes in certain proteolytic processes occurring during senescence. Generally, 24 h conditioning with cycloheximide shortened the longevity of cut calla leaves while having no effect on hosta vase life. In ageing leaves of ‘Minima Glauca’ hosta and calla, the total proteolytic activity increased, including that of cysteine protease. Due to the application of BA or GA3 in hosta and calla, respectively, this activity was limited. On the contrary, the use of CHI either did not affect the activity of cysteine protease or increased it several-fold relative to the control, in hosta and calla, respectively. Leaves treated with growth regulators had many more soluble proteins and fewer free amino acids, including free proline, than leaves from other treatments. The highest free proline level was determined in calla leaves conditioned with CHI, where it increased 18-fold relative to the initial level.

The short vase life of Acacia holosericea cut stems needs to be improved before they are marketable as cut foliage for floral arrangement. The effects of citric acid, Cu2+and sucrose were investigated for their efficacy in postharvest treatments to extend vase life of the cut stems. Five experiments were conducted involved combinations of citric acid either with Cu2+or sucrose. Vase life, relative fresh weight (RFW), and vase solution uptake were measured as indicators of cut stem quality. The effect of Cu2+alone was shown to be consistently superior in improving vase life by up to 1.9-fold as compared with deionised water control. Citric acid had a smaller effect than Cu2+and did not act synergistically with Cu2+. Sucrose on its own or in combination with citric acid did not improve vase life significantly; instead sucrose promoted early wilting or desiccation of the cut foliage. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Cut foliage are deep green with long lasting and evergreen properties which are commonly preferred by the floral industry as accents in floral arrangements. Ruscus hypophyllum L. is one of the commercially produced cut foliage material for making good line, filler and mass material in making floral arrangements. It requires shade for growth. Experiments were conducted with the objectives to find out optimum shade levels and planting density. The rhizomes were planted in factonal randomized block design under three shade levels ( 0, 50% and 75%) and three plant spacing (30x30 cm, 30x40 cm, 30x50cm) with planting density of 18, 15, and 12 plants per m2, respectively. It was observed that different shade levels and plant spacings exhibited significant effect on plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf size and number of stems harvested per plant. The plants were recorded tallest under 75 % shade levels and 30x30 cm plant spacing (61.30cm and 54.48 cm, respectively). The number of leaves produced per plant were maximum (69.99) under 75% shade, however, number of leaves per plant were maximum under 30x30cm spacing. Among various shade levels, 75% shade level resulted in maximum number of cut stems (16.28) that was at par with 50% shade level (16.08). However, the cut stems harvested per plant were recorded maximum (16.67) under 30x30cm spacing. From the results obtained, it was concluded that Ruscus hypophyllum grown under 75% shade level with 30x30 cm spacing and planting density of 18 plants per m2, produced maximum yield of cut stems with longer stem length.

The Brazilian flora has a large number of species with ornamental potential. These species are poorly recognized or even completely unexplored. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential use of four accessions belonging to the species of Anthurium plowmanii, A. raimundii, A. bonplandii and A. Affine for cutting foliage. The accessions from Embrapa Germplasm Bank of Tropical flowers were evaluated for 21 morphological and phenological characteristics and post-harvest longevity. The ornamental characterization was based on the evaluation of this data and florist acceptance as well. The accessions presented differences in almost all the characteristics related to the morphology of the inflorescence and the leaf. Some characteristics such: fruit color, petiole, spadix, and spathe length, are highly variable within the species and depend on the developmental stage. Some characters like petiole length and inflorescence position are particularly important as indicators for the use as cut foliage. The plants have slow development as typical from members of this family and and the production of leaves per year ranged between 6.6 (A. plowmanii) to 10.5 (A. bonplandii), which might be increased with the improvement of cultivation aspects, with an emphasis on spacing, plant management and fertilization. The leaves of Anthurium plowmanii, A. raimundii, A. bonplandii and A. affine present high postharvest durability and great potential as cut foliage, possessing florist acceptance as well.

Eucalyptus silver dollar (Eucalyptus cinerea) is cultivated under intensive agronomic practices for production of cut foliage branches for the floriculture industry. A range of damage symptoms, suspected to be related to unoptimized mineral nutrition, routinely occur in the leaves at the production plantations and reduce yield quality. No information is available about the nutritional requirements of Eucalyptus silver dollar, or of any other Eucalyptus species under intense cultivation for cut foliage branches production. In this study we evaluated the hypotheses that: (1) leaf damage symptoms in the Eucalyptus silver dollar plantations might be related to the nutritional status of the leaves; and (2) they are affected by environmental and growing conditions, and will therefore differ between seasons and location of the plantations. To test these hypotheses we studied the seasonal and location variations in the ionomics of damaged and healthy leaves, physiological parameters, and postharvest attributes of cut foliage branches during vase life in four plantations of Eucalyptus silver dollar in Israel. The observed leaf symptoms were also characterized anatomically. The range of concentrations for individual macronutrients in the leaves was (in g kg-1): N (18-40); P (1.2-3.0); K (5.5-17.0); Ca (3.5-14.0); Mg (1.1-2.8); S (1.3-2.6). The concentrations range for micronutrients was (in mg kg-1): B (10-100); Fe (30-170); Zn (14-27); Mn (38-190); Cu (3.5-5.9). None of the identified leaf symptoms correlated with a consistent increase or decrease of the content of a specific mineral nutrient or heavy metal compared to the healthy leaves, suggesting that they were not caused by mineral deficiency or toxicity. The leaf ionomics was affected by season and varied between locations. The main damage symptoms observed in the four examined plantations during the four harvests were red and purple spots, and oil stains. Postharvest experiments showed that the quality of branches was reduced during 7-15 days of vase life following transport simulation to the local market. The degree of reduced quality during vase life was also dependent on the location of the plantation and the season of harvest. The oil stains appeared in the two most southern locations during summer, suggesting that this symptom might be derived from the summer conditions such as the high temperatures and high light intensities occurring in the southern part of Israel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root-knot nematodes are important pests of cut foliage crops in Florida. Currently, effective nematicides for control of these nematodes on cut foliage crops are lacking. Hence, research was conducted at the University of Florida to identify pesticides or biopesticides that could be used to manage these nematodes. The research comprised on-farm, field, and greenhouse trials. Nematicide treatments evaluated include commercial formulations of spirotetramat, furfural, and Purpureocillium lilacinum (=Paecilomyces lilacinus) strain 251. Treatment applications were made during the spring and fall seasons according to manufacturer's specifications. Efficacy was evaluated based on J2/100 cm³ of soil, J2/g of root, and crop yield (kg/plot). Unlike spirotetramat, which did not demonstrate any measurable effects on Meloidogyne incognita J2 in the soil, furfural and P. lilacinum were marginally effective in reducing the population density of M. incognita on Pittosporum tobira. However, nematode reduction did not affect yield significantly. Although furfural and P. lilacinum have some potential for management of M. incognita on cut foliage crops, their use as a lone management option would likely not provide the needed level of control. Early treatment application following infestation provided greater J2 suppression compared to late application, suggesting the need for growers to avoid infested fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acacia holosericeais a novel cut foliage line with a short vase life. Postharvest application of salicylic acid (SA) can extend the vase life of cut flower. SA is a host defence inducer, as is jasmonic acid (JA). SA and JA were compared as vase solution additives forA. holosericea. Three experiments were conducted that also compared these two chemicals with H+and Cu2+as known vase life extending additives. Vase solutions containing SA at 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 mM gave ~1.3- to 1.5-fold vase life extensions as compared with the distilled water (DW; control). Provision of Cu2+and JA at 0.5 mM in vase solutions also prolonged vase life by ~1.3-fold as compared with DW. The positive effect of SA tended to be greater than that of JA, but was inferior to that of Cu2+at the same concentration. However, trend differences among these treatments were not statistically significant. CutA. holosericeafoliage stems treated with SA and JA exhibited higher relative fresh weight (RFW) and vase solution uptake rates as compared with DW. Overall, SA and JA evidently extended the vase life of cutA. holosericeafoliage by inhibiting water loss and maintaining RFW during the vase period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Florida accounts for more than 75% of the national cut foliage production. Unfortunately, root-knot nematodes (RKN) (Meloidogyne spp.) are a serious problem on these crops, rendering many farms unproductive. Currently, information on the Meloidogyne spp. occurring on most commonly cultivated cut foliage crops in Florida, and tools for their rapid identification are lacking. The objectives of this study were to (i) identify specific RKN infecting common ornamental cut foliage crops in Florida and (ii) evaluate the feasibility of using the mtDNA haplotype as a molecular diagnostic tool for rapid identification of large samples of RKN. A total of 200Meloidogyne females were collected fromcut foliage plant roots.Meloidogyne spp. were identified by PCR and RFLP of mitochondrial DNA. PCR and RFLP of mitochondrial DNA were effective in discriminating the Meloidogyne spp. present. Meloidogyne incognita is the most dominant RKN on cut foliage crops in Florida and must be a high target for making management decisions. Other Meloidogyne spp. identified include M. javanica, M. hapla, Meloidogyne sp. 1, and Meloidogyne sp. 2. The results for this study demonstrate the usefulness of the mtDNA haplotype-based designation as a valuable molecular tool for identification of Meloidogyne spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cycad is one of the most important cut foliage plants with several usages. This experiment was focused on increasing the vase life of cycad's cut foliage in normal storage condition. Experiment was based on a CRD with three replications. Treatments were conducted for four different levels of gibberellic acid (GA3) and benzyl adenine (BA) each one with 0, 50, 100 and 150 mg L-1, according to mentioned statistical design. In all treatments except control, silver nitrate (AgNO3) with 40 mg L-1 and 3% sucrose were used. The measured traits were; vase life, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, water loss and some external quality factors. Results showed that GA3 had significant and positive effects on increasing the vase life of cycad's cut foliage and kept the external quality in good condition. However, unlike the gibberellic acid, treatment with high concentration of BA decreased vase life of cycad's cut foliage. Also, relation between storage time, BA and GA3 on most of measured external factors like leaflet dryness and fragility, were significant. The best treatments were selected as 50 mg L-1 GA3 without BA which increased the vase life of cycad's leaves to 101 days in storage condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camellias are potentially appreciated as cut branches due to their deep and bright green foliage with a high number of flower buds. The present research investigated the role of ethylene in postharvest flower and leaf abscission of seven cultivars of Camellia japonica and evaluated the effect of inhibitors of ethylene action on their vase life. Cut flowering branches were shipped from private companies, mimicking a long and short supply chain. Plant materials were treated with commercial Chrysal, gaseous 1-MCP, and 1-MCP included in β-cyclodextrin-based nanosponges and compared to cut branches exposed to exogenous ethylene (1 ± 0.2 μl l-1) for 24 h and control in tap water. Visual checks for symptoms of variation in senescence, flower opening stage, flower abscission, leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD) and gloss, in addition to ethylene production levels were monitored daily. Cut branches placed in tap water lost ornamental value after ca 5.5 days of vase life and reached complete senescence after about 10 days in all the studied cultivars, regardless of supply chain, with the exception of 'Il Tramonto' with 10 and 20 days, respectively. Exogenous ethylene application reduced camellia cut branch longevity in 'Debbie' and 'R.H. Wheeler', while the other cultivars lasted as long as the control. Anti-ethylene treatments prolonged the vase life only in 'Korun Koku' and 'Il Tramonto'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Danae racemosa (L.) Moench is an important cut foliage in the ornamental market. During postharvest, leaf senescence symptoms are leaf yellowing, weight loss and/or abscission of leaves. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of pre-treatments for 24 h with glycerol and Thidiazuron (TDZ) on Danae vase life before and after storage. Treatments were applied in vase water containing glycerol 0.1, 1 or 10 mM, 10 μM TDZ and a combined treatment of 10 μM TDZ plus 10 mM glycerol. The effect of treatments was evaluated through the determination of vase life, chlorophyll content, chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters, sucrose and total sugars content. The cut foliage were stored in sealed plastic bags and placed in a dark room at 4°C for two months. The vase life, before and after storage, was determined in a controlled chamber set to 20°C and RH 50-60% with a light intensity of 20 μmol m-2 s-1. Results demonstrated that 10 μM TDZ plus 10 mM glycerol was the most effective treatment in maintaining quality during vase life of stored and not stored cut foliage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing effects of exogenous hydrogen peroxide on leaf rolling in detached leaves of Ctenanthe setosa were studied. The leaves were kept in HO solutions ranging from 0 to 1 mM for 48 h and then, osmotic stress was applied for 4 h by polyethylene glycol (PEG). Degree of leaf rolling, loss of leaf water, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were reduced by 0.2 mM HO. Antioxidant enzymes were induced by 0.2 mM HO. Endogenous HO content was increased after the 0.5 and 1 mM HO treatments but was decreased after 0.2 mM HO treatment. Proline was decreased after exogenous HO applications. Total soluble sugar content was increased as compared to the control after 0.2 mM HO treatment. In conclusion, low-dose exogenous HO treatment could delay leaf rolling by inducing tolerance to osmotic stress due to modulation of the antioxidant system, soluble sugar accumulation, and maintenance of leaf hydration. Therefore, postharvest life of C. setosa cut foliage could be extended by 0.2 mM HO treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The mechanisms of action of Cu2+ in improving the longevity of cut flowers and foliage have not been elucidated. Possible antimicrobial action of Cu2+ against stem end and vase solution colonising bacteria was investigated using Cu2+ treatments optimised for cut Acacia holosericea A. Cunn. ex G. Don foliage stems. These treatments were a 5h pulse with 2.2mM Cu2+ or a 0.5mM Cu2+ vase solution versus a deionised water (no Cu2+) control. Bacterial growth over time was assessed by a standard plate count agar technique and with scanning electron microscopy. Cu2+ treatments significantly extended the cut foliage vase life. However, they did not have sustained antibacterial activity against stem end or vase solution colonising bacteria. Also, regular recutting of 1–2cm from the stem ends did not substantially improve either cut stem water relations or longevity. The positive effects of Cu2+ treatments were unaffected by the repeated stem end recutting. It was concluded that the primary mechanism of Cu2+ was not antibacterial. Moreover, naturally growing vase solution and stem end microbial populations had relatively insignificant effects on cut A. holosericea vase life. Research into alternative mechanisms of Cu2+ is required. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The in vivo and in situ rectal digestibility of sweet potato foliage meal was studied through mobile nylon bags. Four pigs of 40 kg were used, canulated in duodenum and fed maize/soybean diets, partially substituted with 0, 10, 20 and 30 % of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) foliage meal, according to a Latin squeare design 4 x 4. There was no significant effect of the treatment on the in vivo rectal digestibility of sweat potato foliage in the pigs. The diet supplied only influenced significantly (P < 0.05) on the rectal digestibility of the OM measured in in situ. Coincidence was found in the rectal digestibility of the DM (49.4 and 50.2%), nitrogen (N) (44.7 and 45.4%) and the energy of sweet potato foliage (45.6 and 46.7%), when the nutritive value was measured in vivo and in situ. It is suggested that the nutritive values of sweet potato foliage diets can be determined in mouth-rectum of pigs by in vivo and in situ procedures differently, through the technique of mobile bag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The relative efficacies of three chemically different nano-silver (NS) formulations were evaluated for their potential to extend the vase life of short-lived cut Acacia holosericea foliage. The novel proprietary formulations were neutral NS, acidic NS and ionic NS. They were characterised in terms of particle size, pH value, colour and odour. The NS treatments were applied as vase (lower concentrations) or pulse (higher concentrations) solutions. Among the treatments compared, neutral NS as a 4mgL−1 vase solution or as a 40mgL−1 24h pulse treatment and acidic NS as a 0.5mgL−1 vase solution or as a 5mgL−1 24h pulse treatment significantly (P ≤0.05) extended the vase life of A. holosericea. Vase life extensions over the deionised water (DI) controls were associated with better maintenance of relative fresh weight and vase water uptake, suppression of bacterial growth in the vase water and stem-end, and delaying stem blockage. In contrast, ionic-NS applied as a 0.5 or 1mgL−1 vase solution treatment or as a 5 or 10mgL−1 pulse treatment caused severe phytotoxicity to cut A. holosericea stems. The results suggest that NS treatments, especially neutral NS and acidic NS pulse treatments, could be a potential postharvest technology for commercial application to cut A. holosericea. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A study was conducted to evaluate growth and quality of Ruscus (Ruscus hypophyllum L.) plants grown in various agricultural substrates incorporated in conventional medium (garden soil, silt & leaf mould [1:1:1, v/v/v], commonly used for commercial production of ornamental plants in Pakistan). Coir fiber, treated sewage sludge, compost (prepared by mixing poultry manure with sewage) and press mud (obtained from Crescent Sugar Mills, Faisalabad, Pakistan) were tested for their physical and chemical characteristics and suitability to be used as growing media for Ruscus production. Plant growth and quality was improved when coir fiber was used in combination with the conventional medium. Longer stems with larger leaf area were produced when compost and sewage sludge were combined individually with the conventional medium. Addition of coir fiber extended stem longevity and quality. Moreover, incorporation of coir fiber and compost lowered pH, maintained optimum EC and increased organic matter of conventional medium that helped improve nutrient uptake by the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Pelargonium (Pelargonium x hortorum) is grown as potted or bedding plants for their colourful, showy flowers and scented foliage. Absence of senescence symptoms in the leaves of Pelargonium cuttings, their capacity to initiate roots and continued growth of initiated roots is an important quality attribute. The effects of postharvest treatments with meta-topolin (mT) and thidiazuron (TDZ) to ‘Katinka’Pelargonium cuttings were investigated. Leaves treated with mT or TDZ for 5d had higher leaf chlorophyll contents than untreated controls. Exposing cuttings to mT had no effect on the rooting proportion (%) and average root diameter. Similarly, 0.05mMmT had no effect on number of roots per cutting. However, mT slightly reduced root length, root surface area and total volume of the roots. TDZ severely inhibited adventitious root formation, thus it reduced all the root parameters investigated. In conclusion, mT is very active in retarding leaf senescence, and combined with the observed ease of rooting of cuttings after mT treatment, this treatment is a suitable alternative to TDZ in delaying the onset of leaf yellowing in ornamental crops. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dodonaea ‘Dana’ is an Israeli hybrid with purple tinted leaves, cultivated for cut foliage branches. Cut Dodonaea branches showed strong seasonal variations in longevity, wilting after one week in winter, while displaying a vase life of three weeks in summer. We examined the relationship between functional anatomy, including vessel, stomata and trichome densities, vessel member length and leaf thickness, and water status of cut branches during vase life over two consecutive seasons, in relation to the average monthly day temperature. All the vascular and leaf anatomy traits examined were significantly correlated with seasonal average monthly day temperature. On day one of vase life the branch water status was positively correlated with vessel, stomata, and trichome densities, and negatively correlated with vessel member length and leaf thickness. However, on day 16, the branch water status was negatively correlated only with vessel member length and diameter, implying different relative importance of anatomical parameters for surviving water stress in the vase. Our results suggest that Dodonaea ‘Dana’ branches exhibit a strong interconnection between environmental parameters and postharvest performance, showing temperature-related seasonal anatomical changes, which lead to differential hydraulic performance during vase life. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The effects of 40, 70 or 100mgL−1 free chlorine neutral and acidic electrolyzed water (NEW and AEW) during the washing and disinfection step, on quality attribute changes during shelf life of fresh-cut mizuna baby leaves, were studied. Physiological, nutritional, enzymatic, sensory, and microbial changes throughout 11 days at 5°C were monitored. Results were compared to those reached with a conventional industrial treatment of 100mgL−1 NaClO at pH 6.5 and with a control washing with deionised water. Both NEW and AEW showed an inhibitory effect on natural microflora growth and retained the main quality attributes. Total chlorophyll content was preserved after shelf life. Initial total phenolic contents ranged between 1868 and 2518mgCAEkg−1 fw for AEW 40 and AEW 100 treatments respectively and slightly increased throughout shelf life. In contrast, after shelf life the total antioxidant activity recorded on the processing day decreased around 35%. Throughout shelf life EW induced an increase in catalase activity while superoxide dismutase activity decreased. Scanning electron microscopy of the leaves showed that neither NEW nor AEW affected their surface structure. To the best of our knowledge, the effects of NEW and AEW on bioactive quality parameters, as well as on antioxidant enzyme activities for fresh-cut baby leaves are first reported here. EW provides an alternative sanitizing technique to NaClO for maintaining the quality of fresh-cut mizuna baby leaves up to 11 days at 5°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cut Rosa hybrida cv. High & Mighty flowers and Acacia holosericea (Velvet Leaf Wattle) foliage were subjected to various physical stem-end treatments as practised by florists. Their effects on longevity (vase life) and water relations [relative fresh weight (RFW) and vase solution uptake (VSU)] were quantified. All vase water contained sodium dichloroisocyanurate (DICA) biocide. Bark removal had either positive or neutral effects on the vase life of fresh-cut rose and had either neutral or negative effects on fresh-cut acacia. Stem-end splitting had either no or negative effects on the vase life of fresh-cut rose and acacia. However, both bark removal and stem-end splitting increased the vase life of both species when applied after short term storage for 24h at 4°C. Crushing stems had no effect on the vase life of fresh-cut rose, but tends to increase the vase life of fresh-cut acacia. Hot water scalding either increased or had no effect on the vase lives of rose and acacia. The tendency for bark removal to increase vase life of fresh-cut rose was associated with better maintenance of RFW and sustained VSU. However, for the most part, stem-end treatments had typically negative or neutral effects on RFW of fresh-cut rose and acacia. Likewise, the treatments had mostly negative or neutral effects on VSU. Overall for both species, there is little or no benefit and potentially negative effects on vase life, RFW and VSU of applying stem-end treatments as sometimes advocated by florists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Insufficient water uptake by cut flowers and foliage species is often due to stem end occlusion and poor stem hydraulic conductance that involve bacterial growth and/or wound healing. S-carvone has putative antibacterial and anti-wound healing activity. S-carvone (0, 0.318 and 0.636mM) was evaluated as a vase solution for Acacia holosericea (Mimosaceae), Baeckea frutescens (Myrtaceae), Chamelaucium uncinatum cv. ‘Mullering Brook’ (Myrtaceae) and Chrysanthemum sp. cv. ‘Dark Splendid Reagan’ (Asteraceae). S-carvone was also tested in vitro for activity against a vase solution bacterium. S-carvone at 0.318 and 0.636mM showed significant (P <0.05) positive effects on relative fresh weight, solution uptake and/or vase life for B. frutescens foliage and C. uncinatum flowering stems, but did not have positive effects for A. holosericea and Chrysanthemum sp. S-carvone did not suppress vase solution bacterial populations. Moreover, there was no in vitro activity at vase solution concentrations against the specific vase water bacterium, Bacillus cereus. For the two Myrtaceous genotypes, B. frutescens and C. uncinatum, S-carvone apparently extended vase life by inhibiting wound healing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A new coumarin, 8,4″-dihydroxy-3″,4″-dihydrocapnolactone-2′,3′-diol (1) and two known triterpenes, 5(6)-gluten-3-one (2) and 5(6)-gluten-3 α -ol (3) were isolated from the leaves of Micromelum minutum (Rutaceae) collected from Sepilok, Sabah, Malaysia and their structures were characterized by spectroscopic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed terminal velocity and release height are recognized as key biotic determinants of long-distance dispersal (LDD) of seeds by wind. Yet, potential determinants at the ecosystem level, such as seasonal dynamics in foliage density characterizing many deciduous forests, have received much less attention. We integrated detailed field observations and experiments with a mechanistic wind dispersal model to assess how seasonal variation in foliage density, estimated by leaf-area index (LAI), affects LDD in deciduous forests We found that the model, previously shown to accurately predict seed dispersal by wind, also reliably describes the effects of LAI variation on wind statistics for a wide range of canopy types. Sparser canopies are characterized by more organized vertical eddy motion that promotes LDD by uplifting seeds to higher elevations where winds are stronger. Yet sparser canopies are also characterized by reduced mean windspeed aloft. We showed that former effect more than compensates for the latter. i.e., conditions of low LAI are favorable for LDD. This may account for the tendency of many temperate tree species to restrict seed release to either early spring or late fall, when LAI is relatively low. Sensitivity analysis reveals that the typical seasonal variation in LAI can be more important to LDD of seeds by wind than the natural variation in seed terminal velocity. Because our model accurately describes the effects of LAI variation for distinctly different sites, species, and life forms, we suggest that its results reflect a general association between LDD and foliage density dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal changes in several forms of nitrogen were investigated in the evergreen chamaephyte Pachysandra terminalis Sieb. et Zucc. growing in temperate evergreen coniferous forest. After plants sprouted new shoots, nitrogen accumulated largely as proteins in the leaves from summer to late autumn and, additionally, during a short spring period in the following year. Proteins accumulated in the overwintered leaves decreased markedly in summer, indicating that they were used for new shoot growth. A similar change was found in Fraction 1 protein. This is consistent with the seasonal changes in photosynthetic capacity and carboxylation efficiency observed in previous studies. The allocation of nitrogen to Fraction 1 protein increased in the spring, presumably to utilize better the relatively high light intensity at the forest floor before leaf expansion of the understory deciduous plants. In contrast to protein nitrogen, soluble nitrogen was present largely in stems and rhizomes. Aspargine was the major component of the amino acid pool in all organs throughout the year. especially in stems in summer. Since asparagine has the highest N:C ratio (2N:4C), an amino acid pool dominated by asparagine is economic in the use of carbon and advantageous for the carbon-limited environment of the forest understory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the results of these investigations from an ecological point of view, it must be stated that the chlorophyll factor does not have much bearing on the photosynthesis in plants with foliage leaves. In most of the species the chlorophyll concentration of the fully developed leaves exceeds the optimum value for the chlorophyll factor. Only in young leaves and in leaves of aurea varieties with chlorophyll concentratration lower than this value, can the chlorophyll factor be of importance for the rate of photosynthesis, but even then, only at weak light intensities which are seldom found in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]