Exploring the Potential of Organic Floral Preservative Solutions to Extend the Post-Harvest Life of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

Abstract

Among aquatic plants Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) has a great economic significance to mankind by owning a considerable share in the local aquatic cut flower market. Lotus flower stem exudes a large quantity of sticky milky sap from the cut surface and latex coagulates on the cut surface which prevents or reduces water absorption and ultimately reducing flowers’ vase life. Vase life of flowers is one of the most crucial factors for cut flower marketing and commercialization. It can be improved by use of different preservatives substances. Compare to harmful chemical floral preservatives, botanical extracts are natural, safe and inexpensive compounds are always crucial in this respect for large scale applications. Hence, this study investigated the potential of some organic floral preservative solutions and its concentration on improving the vase life of lotus. Lotus were blanched in water bath at 40^oC for 30 seconds and placed for pulsing in 5% sugar solution for 30 minutes. Then the flowers were kept under different holding solutions at varying concentrations. 2%, 3% and 5% w/v concentrations of moringa and aloe vera solutions and 20%, 30% and 50 % v/v concentrations of coconut water were supplemented with 5% (v/v) vinegar. Two Factor Factorial Complete Randomized Experimental Design was used with five replicates, and Fisher’s Least Significant Difference test was done for mean separation. For the statistical analysis, SAS 9.4 version software was used. Physical properties and visual observations were made. The results proved that 30% (v/v) concentration of coconut water was best in prolonging the postharvest life of (10 days) lotus. The present study explored the potentialities of using organic floral preservatives to substitute the hazardous chemical preservatives to prolong the post-harvest life of lotus flowers.

Key words: floral preservatives, lotus, post-harvest life.