The effects of benzyladenine as a preservative on the stem bending of gerbera cut flowers

ABSTRACT: The current study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of individual application of BA, without the presence of antimicrobial agents, on the postharvest life of gerbera cut flowers. The gerbera cut flowers were treated by the four different concentrations of benzyladenine (0, 50, 100 and 150 mgl-1). Results revealed that the solution uptake levels in the all treatment groups decreased with in length of time, however, the reduction rates were decreased by the application of the BA and the fewest used concentration was more effective than others as it was indicated by the best results observed in BA50 group. The application of different concentrations of BA in this research work could improved the rates of stem bending where the best results observed in BA50 group. Results of the present research indicated that the individual application of BA, especially low concentrations in pulse method, have potential to induce desirable changes, thereby promoting the longevity of gerbera cut flowers.