Studies on alternative holding solutions for improving vase life of cut carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.)

Studies were conducted to study the effect of different holding solutions on vase life and associated characteristics of cut carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) flowers. Serotonin (300 uM) resulted in earliest flower opening, maximum flower diameter, maximum amount of holding solution consumption, maximum score for freshness of cut flowers, maximum RWC and maximum membrane stability. Cut flowers exhibited highest vase life of 27.37 days when placed in serotonin (300 uM) followed by 24.67 days in holding solution containing sucrose (2%) + 8HQC (150ppm) + BA (5ppm). Therefore, serotonin (300 uM) can be used as a noble environmental friendly alternative holding solution in floriculture industry to replace harmful chemical compounds which are being used to increase flower longevity of carnation cut flowers.