Methanol, ethanol and other compounds retard leaf senescence and improve the vase life and quality of cut chrysanthemum flowers

The effect of methanol, ethanol, benzyladenine (BA) and paclobutrazol on retarding senescence of the leaves of cut chrysanthemum flowers and thus prolonging their vase life, was studied. All substances tested extended the vase life, limited fresh weight loss and increased chlorophyll content. Methanol applied continuously and BA as a pulse increased quantum yield of photosynthesis in the leaves. In addition, BA, and methanol to a lesser extent, prevented the formation of anthocyanins in the petals, allowing the flowers to retain their natural white color and to prolong vase life even longer. All substances, methanol in particular, caused a decrease in the Chl a:Chl b ratio, indicating a better adaptation of the photosynthetic apparatus to low light regimes, and potential capacity of these substances to facilitate acclimatization of cut flowers to interior environments. In terms of overall performance, BA as a pulse, followed by methanol, were the most effective treatments. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.