Pre Harvest Calcium Treatment under Selected Poly Films Improves Leaf Chlorophyll Content in Rose Cut Flower
G. Oloo-Abucheli *
Department of Plant Sciences, Chuka University, P.O.Box 109-60400, Chuka, Kenya and Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soil Sciences, Egerton University, P.O.Box 536, Egerton, Kenya
J. N. Aguyoh
Department of Agriculture and Environmental Studies, Rongo University College, P.O.Box 1023-40404, Rongo, Kenya
G. Liu
Department of Crops, Horticulture and Soil Sciences, Egerton University, P.O.Box 536, Egerton, Kenya
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Quality is a key attribute in marketing of cut flowers. A number of factors may determine quality in cut flowers, among them being the pre-harvest conditions under which the plant was grown. This experiment was designed to investigate the effect of light transmission through selected poly films, rose cultivar and calcium foliar feed on leaf chlorophyll content. The study site was at an elevation of 2238 m above sea level with average maximum and minimum temperature ranges from 19°C to 22°C and 5°C to 8°C respectively. The area receives a total annual rainfall ranging from 1200 to 1400 mm. The experimental design was split split plot laid down in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with poly films forming the main plot treatments. Data collection involved use of Watch dog data logger mini weather station to determine Photosynthetically active radiation among other spectrum properties. Light transmission was evaluated using UV-1800 Shimadzu spectrophotometer. It was observed that leaf chlorophyll content increased with increase in calcium concentration in the foliar feed. Interactive effect was observed between the calcium foliar feeds and the poly film covers on stem firmness. The obtained results were consistent in both trials however the stem firmness was varied from one flush to the other. Effect of temperature caused by varying light intensity on chlorophyll content is also discussed. The results obtained show impact of environmental and nutritional factors on rose cut flower quality.
Keywords: Calcium, temperature, cultivar rose, chlorophyll content