Evaluation of long term transport of Colombian grown cut roses

The postproduction performance of several varieties of Colombian grown cut roses imported to the USA were evaluated. Various hydration periods at the farm level, as well as, handling practices at the wholesale, retail and consumer levels were examined to determine the best handling practices to maximize quality and vase life. immediately after harvest, stems were hydrated for 0, 2, 4, 6, 12, 24 or 36 hours. No differences in vase life were observed among these treatments but flower opening increased 10-20% when hydrated at the farm. Leaf quality declined when hydrated longer than 12 hours on sensitive varieties. General processing of stems using traditional handling methods such as cutting underwater, hydrating during wholesale and retail conditions, and hydration solution temperature generally did not increase vase life or quality in any significant degree. Storing roses more than 3 days at the wholesale level decreased vase life up to 5 days and promoted leaf yellowing and disease. Eliminating storage after transport and using floral preservatives during the consumer phase proved to be the most critical steps in maximizing performance.