The influence of calcium sources and its application methods on the post-harvest phenological and physical quality attributes of gladiolus spikes

The influence of calcium sources on the post-harvest performance of gladiolus cut flowers was evaluated by applying 200 mM calcium from various sources (calcium chloride, calcium sulfate, calcium nitrate and calcium gluconate) through two different application methods i.e., vase holding solution and foliar application method, during the years 2016-2017. The post-harvest phenological and physical aspects of gladiolus cut flowers/ spikes were significantly affected by calcium sources and method of calcium application. The addition of calcium chloride in vase solution resulted in the maximum days to 1st floret opening (2.87 days), 1st floret fading (7.71 days) and full spike fading (14.98 days), fresh and senesced floret weight (9.36 and 7.16 g respectively) as well as the least weight loss (7.41`)/0) in florets. It was concluded from the findings of research that calcium chloride was the best source among various sources of calcium when applied in holding solution as compared to foliar application method for retaining post-harvest quality of gladiolus florets/spikes with improved phenological and physical attributes