Articles
PROTEA, A CUT WOODY ORNAMENTAL: DIVERSITY AND VARIABLE POSTHARVEST RESPONSES
Article number
602_18
Pages
127 – 132
Language
English
Abstract
Protea postharvest research deals with the serious leaf blackening of P. neriifolia, P. compacta, and P. eximia. Within these three species, their hybrids and clones, there are differences in postharvest responses.
The focus on leaf blackening has over-shadowed the need to maintain the quality of the large flower surrounded by its colorful bracts.
Postharvest life of the flower is dependent upon leaf and stem carbohydrates for complete opening and quality development, though it is more complex morphologically and physiologically.
This complexity imposes additional constraints that need to be overcome to assure flower quality maintenance.
This paper reviews current research on leaf blackening of Protea and provides recommendations to improve postharvest quality.
The focus on leaf blackening has over-shadowed the need to maintain the quality of the large flower surrounded by its colorful bracts.
Postharvest life of the flower is dependent upon leaf and stem carbohydrates for complete opening and quality development, though it is more complex morphologically and physiologically.
This complexity imposes additional constraints that need to be overcome to assure flower quality maintenance.
This paper reviews current research on leaf blackening of Protea and provides recommendations to improve postharvest quality.
Publication
Authors
R.E. Paull, T. Jaroenkit, N.J. Chen
Keywords
leaf blackening, inflorescence, vase life, nectar, water loss
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