Role of preservative solutions on physiological mechanisms for delaying leaf yellowing in alstroemeria flowers

ABSTRACT The primary postharvest challenge for alstroemeria is premature leaf yellowing, which impacts flower quality and diminishes ornamental value. It is hypothesized that using preservative solutions could mitigate this issue. This study aimed to analyze the effects of postharvest preservatives on Alstroemeria hybrida ‘Akemi’ to delay leaf yellowing. Floral stems were collected, standardized, and immersed in different preservative solutions prepared with 6-benzyladenine, gibberellic acid, Floralife Crystal Clear®, Florissant with chlorine and silver thiosulfate. Quality and physiological analyses were conducted, revealing that treatments with gibberellic acid, Florissant with chlorine, and silver thiosulfate demonstrated the highest postharvest vase life. Gibberellic acid and Florissant with chlorine were the most effective in delaying leaf yellowing, preserving total chlorophyll content and maintaining cell integrity and water content. Silver thiosulfate was less effective in preventing leaf yellowing, but it was the only solution capable of preventing perianth abscission. These results suggest gibberellic acid and Florissant with chlorine as the most effective alternatives in delaying leaf yellowing for alstroemerias, in addition to opening possibilities for new research. It is recommended that mixtures involving gibberellic acid and silver thiosulfate be investigated, as well as Florissant with chlorine and silver thiosulfate, as these combinations can enhance the longevity of alstroemeria flowers and leaves during vase life.