Effects of pH, Osmolarity, and Oxygen on Solution Uptake by Cut Rose Flowers1
in Journal of the American Society for Horticultural ScienceAbstract
The effects of pH, osmolarity, and oxygen content on solution uptake by cut flowers of Rosa hybrida L. cvs. Cara Mia and White Satin were investigated. Solution uptake was increased at low pH (below 3) while high pH (above 6) inhibited uptake; both effects were amplified with time. Solution uptake was altered by the composition of the buffer. Maximum vase life was achieved with pH 5 solutions. The rates of uptake of various floral chemicals correlated well with the pH values. Mannitol and high concentration of sucrose significantly inhibited total solution uptake but potassium chloride did not inhibit uptake. Deoxygenated solutions were taken up 45% more rapidly during the first 2 hours, but oxygen content had no significant effect on total uptake after 72 hours. High rates of solution uptake do not seem to be required for extension of cut rose vase life.
Contributor Notes
Received for publication November 17, 1979. We wish to thank Cut Flower Exchange, Sunnyvale, CA, Oku, Inc., Pescadero, CA, and Vanni Nursery, Watsonville, CA for their support of this research. This paper reports the results of research only. Mention of a pesticide or proprietary product does not constitute a recommendation by the University of Santa Clara.
