Cold storage modifies bulb biochemical composition and morpho-phenological characteristics of tow lily cultivars

The cultivation and storage of ornamental plants, particularly lilies, is crucial for their aesthetic and economic value. However, ensuring optimal quality during storage and post-storage transplanting remains a challenge. This study aims to determine optimal storage conditions for maintaining the viability and health of lily bulbs, minimizing post-storage losses, and maximizing flowering potential. Chelcheragh ( Lilium ledebourii (Baker) Boiss) and Navona (an Asiatic hybrid lily cultivar) were collected and were then packed at either 1 or 7 °C in a cold room. The bulbs were stored for 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 days at 1 or 7 °C. The results showed that from the start of storage until day 30, abscisic acid (ABA) increased in both cultivars before starting to decrease. The concentration of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) was higher at 1 °C than at 7 °C in Chelcheragh and Navona, 268 % and 271 % higher, respectively. Gibberellic acid, which was 74 % higher than on the first day, peaked on day 120 in the Navona cultivar. Storing at 1 °C compared to 7 °C resulted in a higher sugar content. The highest sugar content was observed on days 60 and 90. While fructose was greater in Chelcheragh, sucrose, glucose, and total sugar were higher in Navona. Compared to Chelcheragh, Navona had higher saponin levels, reaching its maximum on day 120, up 34 % from the beginning of storage. Extending the storage duration, the number of days until blossoming decreased. In plants staged for 90 and 120 days under 1 °C, Navona attained the highest number of flower buds and leaves. The heat map revealed that the most variable compounds during storage were IAA, ABA, fructose, and glucose. • Navana showed better reaction to cold storage than Chelcheragh. • Abscisic acid and indole-3-acetic acid showed the maximum variability. • 1 °C had better effects on biochemical attributes of lily bulbs. • The highest sugar content was seen on days 60 and 90.