Review of recent advances in post-harvest techniques for tropical cut flowers and future prospects: Heliconia as a case-study

Aesthetic attributes and easy-to-grow nature of tropical cut flowers (TCFs) have contributedto their potential for increased production. The dearth of information regarding agronomic practices and lack of planting materials are the key hindrances against their fast expansion. Unconventional high-temperature storage requirements and the anatomy of the peduncle contribute topoor vase life performance, while troublesome packaging and transport due to unusual size and structureprimarily cause post-harvest quality deterioration. Nonetheless, the exotic floral structuresconsequently increase market demand, particularly in temperate countries. This boosts studies aimed at overcoming post-harvest hindrances. While a few TCFs (Anthurium, Strelitzia, Alpinia, and a few orchids) are under the spotlight, many others remain behind the veil. Heliconia, an emerging specialty TCF (False Bird-of-Paradise, family Heliconiaceae), is one of them. The structural uniquenessand dazzling hues of Heliconia genotypes facilitate shifting its position from the back to the forefrontof the world floriculture trade. The unsatisfactory state-of-the-art of Heliconia research and the absence of any review exclusively on it are the key impetus for structuring this review. In addition to the aforementioned setbacks, impaired water uptake capacity after harvest, high chilling sensitivity, and the proneness of xylem ducts to microbial occlusion may be counted as a few additional factors that hinder its commercialization. This review demonstrates the state-of-the-art of post-harvest research while also conceptualizing the implementation of advanced biotechnological aid to alleviate the challenges, primarily focusing on Heliconia (the model crop here) along with some relevant literature on its other allied members. Standard harvesting indices, grading, and packaging are also part of the entire post-harvest operational chain, but since these phases are barely considered in Heliconia and the majority of tropical ornamentals except a few, a comprehensive account of these aspects has also been given. The hypothesized cues to nip chilling injury, resorting to different bio-chemical treatments, nano-based technology, and advanced packaging techniques, may help overcome preservation difficulties and propel its transition from niche to the commercial flower market. In a nutshell, readers will gain a comprehensive overview of how optimum post-harvest handling practices can rewardingly characterize this unique group of TCFs as the most remunerative component.

1 Introduction

The climate of tropical region (starts from Tropic of Cancer to the North to the Tropic of Capricorn to the South) gifts brightly hued tropical flowers (considered as niche products) which since time immemorial, receiving huge admiration (Yue and Hall, 2010) for their shape, symbolic as well as aesthetic significances. Traditionally, these plants are used in gardens and also as cut flower. The current scenario, post-pandemic, is associated with the increasing popularity of these segments among consumers in pan world (Paull, 1990; Paull and Chantrachit, 2001; Jaroenkit and Paull, 2003; Reis et al., 2020a and Reis et al., 2020b; Malakar et al., 2022). The main pros of tropical flowers are the eco-friendliness characteristics as mentioned by Darras (2021) while the current global floral trends i.e ‘Sustainable’ and ‘Wellbeing’ (Kaishita, 2022) also endorse the significance of its cultivation. These could reinforce their growing as mentioned by several researchers (cited herein). Hence, the consistent production of tropical flowers under tropical and sub-tropical regions not only foster the aesthetic and environmental significance but could also revive the tradition of their worthwhile usages with remunerative potential eulogistically. However, tropical flowers represent only approximately 4%-5% of all cut flowers traded (Laws, 1998 and Laws, 2005).

Tropical flowers consist of a diversified group of flowers that are native to tropical and subtropical climates (Paiva and Beckmann-Cavalcante, 2023). The most commonly known tropical flowers in the markets are cut orchids (Cymbidium) and Anthurium, but this product group also includes many other species belonging to the monocotyledonous taxonomic order of Zingiberales (Scitaminae, Clade - Commelinids) (Kress, 1990). This order includes eight families: Musaceae, Strelitziaceae, Lowiaceae, Heliconiaceae, Zingiberaceae, Costaceae, Cannaceae, and Marantaceae.The respective genus and species of these families usually grow in tropical regions (Cronquist, 1978).

A recent classification, elaborated by International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) (2019), describes the production and consumption markets at global level, divided into four homogenous geographical groups: (1) Mature domestic producer countries (Europe, Canada, US, China, and Japan); (2) Emerging domestic producer countries (India, Mexico, and Brazil); (3) Mature exporting producer countries (Colombia, Kenya, and Ecuador); (4) Emerging exporting producer countries (Ethiopia and Vietnam). Producers and exporters of tropical cut flowers are present in these different groups, although it is often difficult to obtain separate market statistics for each product (Silva et al., 2019).

Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica are also considered as major exporters to USA and Canada, thanks to the benefits of NAFTAAlliance(North American Free Trade Agreement). Tropical flowers represent a relatively small segment of the European flower market and are traded at flower auctions in Holland (Royal Flora Holland) and Germany (Veiling Rhein-Maas), where a small number of merchants specialize in tropical flowers. However, important companies like Dutch Flower Group BV ([e-source: https://dfg.nl/en/] and Dümmen Orange [e-source: https://na.dummenorange.com/site/en] are involved in this market. The most commonly known tropical flowers in European markets are cut orchids (Cymbidium) and Anthurium. The product group also includes many other species, such as Strelitzia, Heliconia, Protea, Leucadendron, Leucospermum, Ananas, Calathea and Zingiberales (Ginger).In the South-East Asian province, China is the largest producer and exporter of tropical cut ornamentals. Anthurium, Dahlia, Lily, orchids and Zantedeschia (Calla Lilly) are the major tropical cut flowers exported to Dutch flower auctions from this province. Europe (mainly Germany and Italy), Japan and US are the largest importers of tropical flowers (Laws, 1998; COLEACP (Europe-Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Liaison Committee), 2002; Pizano, 2005; Linares-Gabriel et al., 2020; Chandel et al., 2022; Nzomoi et al., 2022).

In Europe, tropical flowers are primarily sold in mixed and colorful bouquets. Consumers appreciate these exclusive tropical bouquets and are willing to pay extra for them.In the Netherlands, a tropical bouquet consisting ofAnthurium, Heliconia, Celosia and Ananascan cost around € 40/50 at the florist shop. In supermarkets, a single tropical flower, such as a smaller Strelitzia or Protea, is usually combined with cheaper flowers and fillers, and a small bouquet may cost as little as € 5 (CBI Product Factsheet, 2016). Recent consumption trends, marketing strategies, and governance settings in ornamental horticulture have been elucidated by Gabellini and Scaramuzzi (2022), but no mention of tropical ornamentals has been found.

According to the report of CBI Market Intelligence (2016) on the ‘Tailored study of tropical flowers and foliagefrom Colombia, UAE, and other Middle East markets’, Heliconia and gingers are of great importance. Both of these flowers originate from Asian countries such as Thailand and Malaysia. However, the main producing and exporting countries of tropical ornamentals of the Zingiberalesorder are Colombia and Costa Rica. Although no quantitative data related to the export, import, and detailed statistics on national and international trade of Heliconiahave been found through bibliographic searches, it is reported that Brazil (54.5%), Colombia (15.4%) and Mexico (10.9%) are at the forefront of its production (Linares-Gabriel et al., 2020). India has been identified as the emerging domestic producer of this Specialty Tropical Cut Flower (STCF) among the Southeast Asian countries (Malakar et al., 2022).The price of a cut stem is approximatelyUS$2-3 or US$3-5 for the erected (80-100 cm length) or the pendent helicônias (e.g.H. rostrata)respectively (e-Source: https://www.cbi.eu/events/royal-floraholland-trade-fair-rfhtf-2016; no recent data are available).

Taking into consideration the great potential and burgeoning demand as a cut flower, our review will focus on Heliconia(>250 inter and intra-specific varieties are existing), commonly known as ‘False Bird-of-Paradise’, which belongs to the family Heliconiaceae(Abalo and Morales, 1982; Kress, 1990; Berry and Kress, 1991; Criley and Broschat, 1992; Abadie and Berreta, 2001; Urooj-UI-Nissa et al., 2015; Malakar et al., 2016; Avendaño-Arrazate et al., 2017; Krause et al., 2023). This review will specifically focus on the pre- and post-harvest factors that affect the desired attributes of heliconia cut flowers as expected by consumers. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no dedicated review exclusively focused on post-harvest practices in Heliconia.

The state-of-the-art of scientific investigations on Heliconia reveals that research is mainly carried out in Brazil (67%), Colombia (19%),with a focus on production-related aspects (75%) rather than post-harvest (16%), marketing (7%), and industry-based (2%) research areas(Linares-Gabriel et al., 2020). On the contrary, scientific literature on post-harvest management practices for common tropical ornamentals (Strelitzia, Anthurium, Ornamental gingers, Cymbidium, Dendrobium etc.) is available and accessible. Therefore, in this review, we have considered the available literature on post-harvest practices in Heliconia, but we have also provided a brief overview of other related tropical members to present a comparative view of advancements in post-harvest measures and to support certain concepts. On the other hand, Jaroenkit and Paull (2003) stated that post-harvest management practices in all tropical ornamentals are more or less similar, possibly due to the structural anatomical similarities in peduncles (for inflorescences) or pedicels (for flowers). However, a detailed literature survey challenges the retention of this view.

In the following sections, we will take into account the factors that could affect the quality of Heliconia cut flowers throughout the entire production chain, from 'field to consumer.' This includes pre-harvest factors such as agronomic practices (Criley and Paull, 1993; De et al., 2014), harvest factors as harvesting maturity and seasons (Pompodakis et al., 2005) and post-harvest factors such as chain management and post-harvest handling sequences (Dolan and Sutherland, 2002; Collins and Dent, 2022). In a meta-analysis study on tropical plant postharvest, it was identified that the addition of preservatives to solutions, variations in storage temperature, and the use of electromagnetic fields are, currently, the most effective techniques in extending the shelf life of cut flowers (Cunha Neto et al., 2023). We will also consider post-harvest physiology determinants, including multiple genetic factors, maintenance of water balance components, and respiratory substrates (Onozaki et al., 2001; Fanourakis et al., 2013).

In summary, this review will highlight the challenges faced and effective measures to enhance the growing impact of tropical Specialty Cut Flowers (SCFs), along with providing directional hypothetical views on the necessary advancement for future perspective.

2 Post-harvest quality in Heliconia

Flowers are ephemeral organs (Smyth, 2005; Costa et al., 2021) due to their highly perishable nature, which results in a short post-harvest life. The quality of the final products plays a crucial role in determining the acceptability of cut flowers. Ensuring marketable post-harvest quality, which is a basic requirement for different market channels, necessitates maintenance at both pre- and post-harvest stages. Generally, the factors that affect the flowers physiology are classified as ‘Pre’ (including all aspects of agronomic practices) (Criley and Paull, 1993) and ‘Post-harvest’(abiotic factors such as storage temperature, relative humidity [RH], atmospheric gas composition, and biotic factors such as microbial occlusion and deterioration of physiological mechanisms) (Fernandes et al., 2020; Costa et al., 2021). Harvesting (considering maturity and the season/time of cutting) and handling (including sorting, storage, packing, and transport) of harvested produce are also vital factors to consider.

Among the most common drawbacks that can affect post-harvest quality, there are several factors that apply to various tropical species. These factors include the lack of standardization of harvest indices, inadequate handling facilities, negligence during handling, sharing of storage space with other traditional cut flowers, and more. Additionally, structural differences in floral taxonomy, sensitivity to chilling, large size, special packaging requirements, and anatomical specifications can also contribute to these challenges. Due to these factors, post-harvest practices cannot be generalized, and special attention should be given to the specific species' post-harvest requirements (Jaroenkit and Paull, 2003).

In Heliconia, its inflorescences (bold cincinnus type; with either an upright or pendant posture) consisting of multihued bracteate structures with spiral or distichous aestivation.) (Kress, 1984; Criley and Broschat, 1992; Criley and Paull, 1993; Castro et al., 2007; Rodríguez, 2013; Costa et al., 2015; Loges et al., 2016; Souza et al., 2016). These inflorescences are popularly used as cut flowers, unlike its true flowers, which are inconspicuous in nature, usually white, yellow or orange in color, numbering from 2 to 20 and remaining enveloped by bracts (Criley and Paull, 1993, Criley and Broschat, 1992, Krause et al., 2023). The importance of Heliconia as a cut flower lies in the bright hues, sturdiness, and freshness of its inflorescences. However, ill-developed or deteriorated chromatic features and desiccated or browning symptoms of the boat-shaped bract tips categorize them as non-acceptable cut units. To overcome these drawbacks, the role of several factors mentioned in the preceding paragraph will be delineated in the following sections.

2.1 Pre-harvest factors

Very few research reports have been obtained on the role of pre-harvest factors in determining the post-harvest quality of cut Heliconia. Similarly, when considering other allied cut tropical ornamentals such as Strelitzia sp. and ornamental gingers (OGs), apart from Anthurium, the status of research investigations on pre-harvest factors as indicators of after-harvest quality of cut flowers is very limited. Nonetheless, achieving a high yield of quality cut units is the main objective of manipulating pre-harvest factors. In this section, the roles of light, temperature, and fertilizers as optimum standards for boosting yield and determining post-harvest quality will be discussed.

Light: Optimum light condition impacts on the phenotypic features of plants, hence, it is considered as one of the crucial factors during the agronomic practices. Concerning tropical ornamentals, generally, the light requirement varies from genotype to genotype. According to Broschat and Donselman, 1983a; Broschat and Donselman, 1983b) Heliconia can thrive best under the semi-shaded condition while excessive shade and crowding can cause the reduced yield with weak, lanky stems as most evident in H. psittacorum groups. Malakar et al. (2016) had also corroborated the same based on the outcomes of their experiment on evaluation of agro-morphological attributes of diversified Heliconia genotypes under West Bengal, India, condition but any standardized range of shade percentage yet to be made. The other tropical cut flowers also prefer semi-shaded condition like in Alpinia 30% (Criley, 1988), Curcuma 50-70% (Criley, 2014), Anthurium 30%-75% (Kamemoto, 1962) while according to Ismail et al. (2019), Etlingera needs partial shade (standardized percentage not found) but the empirical views of the authors of this review are paradoxical to the view of these researchers.

The flowering in Heliconia is seasonal and depends on certain growth condition and physiognomic features (eg. in H. angusta, pseudostem bearing 3 unfurled leaf blades can only cause bud emergence, in H. chartacea, number of emerged shoots and leaves determine the onset flowering) as well as place of growing (Criley and Lekawatana (1994) but a few research reports on roles of photoperiod for growth and flowering have been noticed. According to Criley et al. (1999), the photoperiodic requirement, for flowering in Heliconia genotypes, is species-specific. They found H. Wagneriana and H. stricta var. 'Dwarf Jamaican' as short day (SD) species while H. angusta as long day (LD). They also mentioned that in H. angusta, if exposure to LD condition for>13.3 h for the duration of 15 to 17 weeks takes place, then only the anthesis can happen while in rest 2 species, anthesis takes place after 15 to 19 weeks of exposure to SD condition. Again Geertsen (1990) found that to get early, abundant flowering along with shortened peduncle length in H. aurantiaca Ghiesbr. ex. Lemaire, exposure at 16h of LD condition is optimum while to get off-season blooming in H.rostrata, critical day length condition of 11.5-12h; in other words, SD condition, is needed (Maciel, 2000). The photoperiodic requirement of other tropical ornamentals is basically LD while some exceptions also could be found (Table 1).

TABLE 1

Table 1 Pre-harvest photoperiodic requirement in some tropical cut ornamentals.

Temperature: Concerning Heliconia cultivation, like light intensity, temperature is also another major factor but dearth of scientific investigations in this regard have been evidenced; hence, only a handful of old scientific reports have been cited here. According to Broschat and Donselman (1987), the air temperature below 10-12.5°C could be harmful for H. psittacorum while harvesting season also matters as reported by Bredmose (1986). Both the researchers mentioned about the vase life (V) difference in Heliconia genotypes grown in Denmark due to different harvesting season (winter harvesting V_short and summer harvesting V_long). Again Geertsen (1990) had been found to be reported that the temperature range between 15 to 21°C could cause increase in flowering percentage by >20% along with the peduncle length of 40 cm while the number of leaves subtending the inflorescence was increased by 2.5% in H. psittacorum. Any report on frost sensitiveness of Heliconia has yet be found while the impact of exposing its inflorescence under varied degree of light intensity is also absent. The state-of-the-art on this aspect regarding other tropical ornamentals like Alpinia, Anthurium, Strelitzia, Curcuma etc. are also unsatisfactory (Table 2); apparently proves the research negligence on current date, which embody the importance of conductance of research investigation on them including Heliconia.

TABLE 2

Table 2 Pre-harvest temperature requirement in some tropical cut ornamentals. .

Fertilizer: In 1987, Broschat and Donselman worked on the effect of NPK on qualitative and quantitative evaluation of cut stems of H. psittacorum and found that K does not have any impact while N up to 600gm^-2 could augment the yield and quality attributes both. Recently, Sardinha et al. (2019) had carried out an investigation on the influence of phyto-stimulants (like Bion, Agro-MOS Quartz, Ca-Fosfitotal (Ca-Phosphite), K-Fosfitotal (K-Phosphite)), applied in the field condition, on the stem quality of H. psittacorum cv. ‘Golden Torch’ during vase life. They found the positive implications of them while the best outcomes had been obtained in K-Fosfitotal since electrolyte leakage (EL) and lipid peroxidation scores were low in this case. Other associated post-harvest parameters like visual aspect, fresh matter loss, water balance in cut stems were improved too by due application of phyto-stimulants during cultivation phase as pre-harvest management strategy (Sardinha et al., 2019).

Loss of cell membrane integrity generally is triggered by electrolyte’s leakage which consequently causes the cell death. (Hatsugai and Katagiri, 2018). Electrolytes like Ca²⁺, K⁺, Mg, Chlorite, Ph, Na²⁺ etc. play vital role in determining the post-harvest physiology of cut floral units. High concentration of electrolytes aids to withstand various abiotic and biotic post-harvest stresses (like water stress condition, pathogen attack etc.) while its low quantity causes the reverse (Hatsugai and Katagiri, 2018). On other side, peroxidation of lipids can disturb the assembly of the membrane by causing changes in fluidity and permeability, alter the ion transport and inhibition of metabolic processes. High scores of it, cause injured mitochondria inducing higher rate of ROS generation (Pourzarnegar et al., 2020) and consequently affect the post-harvest phase of ornamental cut units. Different enzymatic activities like peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) had been also influenced by application of phyto-stimulants (Sardinha et al., 2019). Optimum agronomic practices reduce the post-harvest oxidative stress by increasing anti-oxidant enzyme i.e. SOD and catalase (CAT) activities as reported by Zulfiqar et al. (2022).

Based on the bibliographic searches, it may be said that the nutritional requirement and its impact on post-harvest quality vary in different tropical cut flowers. The curated information(s) have been tabulated (Table 3). Furthermore, bract’s hue determines the value of tropical flowers; hence, the impact of fertilizers on maintaining the bract color is another vital aspect of investigation. In Heliconia and any other tropical ornamentals except Anthurium (Table 3), any such reports have not been identified.

TABLE 3

Table 3 Status of research on pre-harvest nutritional requirement in some tropical cut ornamentals.

Other factors: Any scientific reports on standardized spacing, irrigation and plant growth regulators (PGRs) regime for Heliconia cut flower production have not yet found. But in other tropical cut flowers, meager information(s) have been obtained. As for example, for Alpinia and Etlingera, optimum plant-to-plant (P/P) spacing are 1.2-2.0m (Criley, 1988), and 1.5 x 1.5m (Criley, 2011 and Criley, 2014, Castro et al., 2011) respectively while irrigation of 25mm week^-1in Alpinia(Criley, 2014) and withholding of irrigation in scheduled manner for about 2.0-2.5 months, had been found beneficial in early flowering in Strelitzia (Criley, 2005). In case of C. alismatifolia, C. gracillima and C. thorelli, pre-soaking of rhizomes in GA₄₊₇solution (concentration did not found), for 10mins duration, during pre-planting stage may cause the dwarfing of floral stem length (Sarmiento and Kuehny, 2003) which consequently make these cut blooms more feasible to use and transport also. Again, according to Hagiladi et al. (1997), the planting of propagules with >5 t-roots (tuberous egg-shaped root ends of rhizome) as compare to<2 t-roots, result in early flowering in ornamental Curcuma.

Surprising augmentation in demand of tropical flowers in international floral market has alarmed to be mindful about the quality and phyto-sanitary aspects of cut flowers. Several fungal causative agents like Calonectria spathiphylli (susceptible genotypes: H. angusta cv. ‘Holiday’, H. bihai cv. ‘Lobster Claw’), Bipolaris incurvata (susceptible genotypes: H. stricta var. ‘Dwarf Jamaican Red’, H. chartacea), Cercospora sp. and Pseudocercospora sp. (susceptible genotypes: H. psittacorum cv. ‘Andromeda’, H. wagneriana) cause severe foliage diseases while Rhizoctonia solani (susceptible genotypes: H. bihai cv. ‘Lobster Claw’, H. caribaea), Phytophthora nicotianae (susceptible genotype(s): H. caribaea and highly tolerant genotype(s): H. mutisiana), Pythium sp.(susceptible genotypes: H. psittacorum var. ‘Bengal’, H. indica cv. ‘Spectabilis) - these fungal strains found responsible for the rhizome and root diseases (Ferreira et al., 1991 and Sewake and Uchida (year missing, e-source: http://www.extento.hawaii.edu/kbase/reports/heliconia_pest.htm). Barring these, several bacterial diseases like ‘Leaf Rolling’, ‘Wilting’ and ‘Die back’ also found to be caused by Pseudomonas solanacearum; H. psittacorum and H. rostrata show the high susceptibility (Ferreira et al., 1991) towards it while ‘burrowing’ nematode (Radopholus similis), ‘root-knot’ nematode (Meloidogyne sp.), and ‘lesion’ nematode (Pratelenchus sp.) have also been reported to infect H. angusta, H. chartacea, H. stricta (Sewakeand Uchida (year missing, e-source: http://www.extento.hawaii.edu/kbase/reports/heliconia_pest.htm). Any such viral diseases have yet to be reported in Heliconia but Hamim et al. (2017) had reported about the occurrence of BBTV (Banana Bunchy Top Virus), for the first time ever, in H. aurantiaca in Hawaii. Positive result of triple-antibody sandwich (TAS)-ELISA and PCR tests had confirmed the infestation but any remedial measures had not been stated by the researchers. In case of Anthurium, Xanthomonas bacterial blight led lesions on spathe often impairs the quality of cut units (Norman and Ali, year missing; e-source: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/PP292; Hara et al., 2004).

Generally, several pre-harvest management practices determine the occurrence and spreading of diseases; Heliconia is also not exceptional. The mode of spreading is significantly diverse; as for example, may be through soil contamination, contact infestation, water stagnation condition (synonymously poor drainage), influence of various abiotic factors etc. In most cases, ‘rhizome rotting’, caused by bacterial and nematodal infestations; mainly spread from soil to roots, results in dying of Heliconia plants while the degree of foliage’s infestation also directly affects the plant health and consequences into low yield with impaired quality’s inflorescences (Berry and Kress, 1991).

To date, barring the conventional measures viz. optimum cleaning of rhizomes, controlled soil moisture level, appropriate spacing between plants for good air movement, sanitation of growing substrates, enhancement of soil organic matter content, use of resistant genotypes, application of insecticides and pesticides, soil fumigation processes, any modern approaches to mitigate the said menace have not been devised concerning our discussed ornamental’s group. El-Baky and Amara (2021) mentioned about some novel advanced approaches towards controlling phytopathogenic issues. Several strategies like biofumigation (employs organic material’s fermentation to develop anaerobic condition and toxic metabolites to make phytopathogens non-functional), use of antagonistic microorganisms in virgin soils, use of microbial fungicides by unique application method via honey bees, known as ‘flying doctors’, as they deliver bacterial fungicide Bacillus subtilis during pollination, use of agronanotechnology. Fungal cell deactivation and evacuation using ‘Ghost’ technique, use of UV light and floral extracts like Chammomile tea and modern breeding strategies like RNA interference (RNAi) (i.e host-induced gene silencing [HIGS] and spray-induced gene silencing [SIGS]) to develop phytopathogenic resistant plants have been mentioned by them which are based on ‘Green principles’ and are already in practice in case of other horticultural crops. However, the conductance of trial tests of these said techniques aiming to minimize not only the occurrence of phytopathogenic interference but also to produce sustainably export quality’s cut inflorescences. A few tropical flowers importing countries after disembarkation of the cut produces, clean (either by simple hot water treatment or by foamy soap water cleaning) them on-site (Berry and Kress, 1991) rather following any stringent phytosanitary regulations.

Summarily, it may be said that the optimum field management practices could necessarily ascertain the qualitative and quantitative features of post-harvest products. So, resorting to afore cited reports, some ventures might would be also taken in Heliconia for further future investigations.

2.2 Harvesting factors

Generally, Heliconia inflorescences are harvested by cutting near the stalks (Criley and Paull, 1993; Criley, 1995) while on the contrary, Broschat and Donselman (1983b) found satisfactory keeping quality with the pulling method of harvesting. Harvesting time (in terms of season and hours) and stage of harvesting are key factors determining the post-harvest quality of cut flowers. Generally, bract opening after harvesting does not occur in Heliconia inflorescences (Criley, 1995). To achieve the best post-harvest quality, harvesting cut units from well-irrigated plants could be a way to reduces the chance of desiccation to some extent (Dolselman and Broschat, 1986). Harvesting indices are usually genus and species-specific. For large-sized Heliconia inflorescences, harvesting at the stage of ½ or 2/3^rd open bracts, while for a few 1 small-sized cultivars of H. psittacorum, harvesting at the stage of 1 or 2 open bracts or tight bud stage, has been found to yield optimum shelf life and post-harvest performance, as stated by Broschat and Donselman (1983b) and Criley (1995). In Strelitzia sp. and Alpinia sp., the harvesting indices are almost similar, while in Etlingera, ‘tight bud stage’ and ‘torch stage’ are considered as the optimum stage of harvesting (Criley, 2014), although it may vary from species to species (Table 4). According to Liju (2013), harvesting the inflorescences at the 1-2 open bracts stage in general increases the vase life. Tjia and Sheehan (1984) stated that harvesting immature inflorescences could extend the keeping quality by an extra 42% compared to mature harvesting (3-4 bracts open stage). The retention of foliage in harvested inflorescences generally does not affect their post-harvest life (Ka-ipo et al., 1989; Criley and Broschat, 1992; Criley, 1996). Generally, for large and small types of Heliconia (eg.H. psittacorum’s cultivars), a total stem length of 150 cm and 60-90cm, is maintained (Criley and Paull, 1993), while for Alpinia and Etlingera, peduncle length of 60-150cm (Criley and Paull, 1993) and 50-70cm (Araújo et al., 2018; Baskaran, 2022), respectively, are maintained. The standardization of maturity threshold for harvesting allied tropical ornamentals like Globba, Curcuma, and Zingiber species is yet to be made.

TABLE 4

Table 4 Harvesting indices of some tropical ornamentals.

Several physiological reasons lie behind harvesting at the optimum maturity stage, but there is no evidence of any investigations concerning this in Heliconia. To support this, it may be mentioned that the activities of cellulase and pectin methyl esterase enzymes, which principally regulate flowering and post-harvest abscission, respectively, are determined by the optimum harvesting stage, as evidenced in Etlingera by Wang (2017). High cellulase activity has been found in involucral bracts of Etlingera from the ‘tight bud’ to the ‘6-tip opened stage’, but its activity deteriorates from ‘6-tip opened stage’ to the ‘torch stage’, while the activity of pectin methyl esterase increase (Yeat, 2016). The same researcher reported that from the ‘tight bud’ to the ‘bloom stage’, a high content of ethanol insoluble residue and cellulose content in the peduncle are usually found. Taken together, it may be said that further insight into the physiological basis of determining the harvesting stage of tropical cut flowers may be the timely need.

2.3 Post-harvest factors

The Heliconia, as a cut flower, is highly accepted by customers due to its diversity in bract color and exotic appearance (Loges et al., 2005 and Costa et al., 2011; Loges et al., 2016). Therefore, preserving the hue of its bracts is one of the primary goals during their presence with consumers. The hardy nature, firmness of the peduncle, and natural durability (Castro et al., 2006, Reid, 2001) can also be considered as additional features that contribute to their high demand. However, to maintain the post-harvest quality of cut units, several factors need to be carefully taken into account. Temperature, water balance, carbohydrate supply, and growth regulators (Reid and Kofranek, 1980; Halevy and Mayak, 1981) are key factors that play a crucial role in the storage of cut items and in extending their vase life. In the following sections, we will discuss the role of each factor in the post-harvest vase life of Heliconia cut inflorescences, as well as other related tropical cut flowers.

Temperature: The recommended storage temperature for cut Heliconia is >12°C (Broschat and Donselman, 1983b; Criley and Paull, 1993) since all species and cultivars of this genus are highly sensitive to low temperature condition. chilling injury (CI) such as depressions, browning, or dark spots on the bracts and flowers can occur if they are stored at temperatures below 10°C for 2 days, as reported by several researchers (Markhart, 1986; Paull, 1991; Darras, 2020 and Carrera-Alvarado et al., 2021). Silva et al. (2019) evaluated the optimum storage temperature of H. densiflora and H. psittacorum (in three different color varieties: ‘Red’ [5R 4/10], ‘Orange’ [7.5Y 7/10], and ‘Yellow’ [2.5Y 7/10]) under controlled temperature condition. The samples were stored at three different temperatures (14°C, 18°C, and 22°C) inside a cold chamber and under controlled ambient conditions (26°C). They found that 14°C (storage period up to 9 days) was optimal for the ‘Red’ variety, and 14-22°C (for a storage period of up to 6 days) was optimal for both the ‘Yellow’ and ‘Orange’ varieties of H. psittacorum, with no signs of senescence or necrosis. For H. densiflora, a temperature of 18°C was recommended for storing healthy cut stems for up to 6 days. Controlled ambient conditions were found to be unsuitable for storage (maximum storage period recorded was 1-2 days). Costa et al. (2011) also studied the storage of H. bihai cv. ‘Lobster Claw’ at low temperatures (12°C and 19°C). The development of CI symptoms was observed from the 3rd day onwards when stored at 12°C, while storage at 19°C for up to 8 days was recommended for maintaining visual quality and fresh weight of the cultivar.

CI is a physiological malfunction of plants caused by exposure low temperatures rather than freezing temperatures, rendering the product unusable (Markhart, 1986; Parkin et al., 1989). Loss of membrane integrity due to low-temperature-induced membrane lipid phase transitions and physiological dysfunctions are the fundamental biochemical causes of CI (Bhattacharya and Bhattacharya, 2022). The high concentration of high melting phospholipids, membrane retailoring, increased fluidity at low temperatures, direct or indirect impact on intrinsic enzymes due to membrane perturbations, and redistribution of cellular Ca (which acts as a secondary messenger of many cellular functions) may also be considered as primary transducer of CI (Parkin et al., 1989; Chen and Ko, 2021; Tian et al., 2022; Olmedo et al., 2023). Maintenance of membrane integrity enables the electron transport chain system and oxidative phosphorylation to produce ATP and supports the normal functioning of pathways like TCA cycle, glycolysis, β-oxidation, etc (Parkin et al., 1989; Darras, 2020), but disruption of membrane structure impacts the entire physiology. According to Lukatkin et al. (2012), cyto-physiological changes such as distorted cell membranes leading to loss of cell compartmentation, swelling and rupture of plasmalemma, destruction of the endoplasmic reticulum and vesiculation of its membranes, changes in the Golgi apparatus, swelling and degeneration of mitochondrial structure, matrix enlightenment, and cristae shortening also occur due to CI. CI also affects photosynthesis, as reported by Markhart (1986) and Lukatkin et al. (2012). They mentioned that chilling-induced water stress decrease the quantum yield of whole-plant photosynthesis and also cause direct injury to the chloroplast (the oxidative side of photosystem II is the site of injury). Furthermore, decreased mitotic cell index (Strauss et al., 2007), cessation of cell growth (Rymen et al., 2017), decreased cytoplasm viscosity (Lukatkin et al., 2012), coagulation of structural proteins (Zhang et al., 2021), low soluble protein content, shift in intracellular pH (Kasamo et al., 2000), cessation of cytoplasmic streaming (Lukatkin et al., 2012), and changes in ATP (adenosine-5’-triphosphate) levels (Minorsky, 1985) are also part of the implications. Parkin et al. (1989) hinted at the role of lipid peroxidation in causing irreversible damage, during low-temperature storage, in the form of free radical-induced damage to tissues and progressive membrane rigidification.

Generally, all tropical ornamentals except Strelitzia (Table 5) are susceptible to low-temperature storage. In this context, Anthurium should be mentioned first (Promyou et al., 2012). The key CI symptoms of Anthuriumare ‘Browning’ and ‘Blueing’ of the spathes and wilting of spadixes (Promyou et al., 2012; Aghdam et al., 2015). Generally, storing Anthurium at an optimum temperature of 10-12°C controls these symptoms (Reid and Wu, 1992; Balas et al., 2006; Aliniaeifard et al., 2020). However, Paull (1987) found exceptions regarding the storage of some other Anthurium varieties at higher temperatures (14-17°C). Chemical solutions, such as salicylic acid and GABA-based treatments, have also been shown to alleviate CI issues (Promyou et al., 2012, Soleimani Aghdam et al., 2015 and Aghdam et al., 2016). However, none of these strategies completely eliminate browning of the spathe. Recently, Aliniaeifard et al. (2020) conducted an experiment to evaluate the role of different post-harvest light spectral compositions (Red [R], Blue [B], R & B@ 70:30% and White [W]; intensity - 125µmol m^-2S^-1) in alleviating chilling injury symptoms in ‘Calore’ (red-colored spathe) and ‘Angel’ (white-colored spathe). They observed that protection from blue light could reduce chilling injury, as indicated by lower electrolyte leakage, and water loss percentage during storage under blue light exposure (storage temperature was 4⁰C). They also found that the short vase life of the blue light-treated cultivar may be attributed to the effect of this light spectrum on oxidative stress and membrane integrity. Despite categorization Heliconia as a highly chilling-sensitive crop, no investigations on the role of light spectrum in alleviate this issue have taken place yet. However, a few investigations on this aspect have been conducted on other related tropical ornamentals, and the findings are summarized in Table 5.

TABLE 5

Table 5 Research status on impact of post-harvest factors on qualitative attributes of some tropical ornamentals.

Principally, the major post-harvest deteriorations occur during the shipment of the produces, and the temperature conditions at the destination also play a vital role in this case (Paull, 1991). Since our target crop originates from tropical and sub-tropical regions, when it is shipped to temperate regions, the sudden low-temperature shock poses a vulnerability. However, prolonged exposure of the cartons to scorching temperatures due to unprofessional handling can also cause injury (Reid and Kofranek, 1980; Heliconia Society International (HSI), 1989). Leite et al. (2015) evaluated the optimum storage conditions for H. stricta var. ‘Bucky’. They stored the cut inflorescences in cardboard boxes for 2, 4, 6 and 8 days under three different conditions: ‘in box at room temperature (23°C and 89% relative humidity)’; ‘in box under refrigerated storage (17°C and 94% relative humidity)’; and ‘control treatment’ i.e at room temperature condition (25°C and 77% relative humidity).They found that the optimum post-harvest attributes along with a shelf life of 7 days, were achieved under the first storage condition. However, the development of chilling symptoms (dark brown spots at the center and apex of bracts and at the conjunction of rachis and bracts) was noticed in the second storage condition, emphasizing the sensitivity of Heliconia to chilling. Paradoxically, Liju (2013) reported that a storage temperature of 17°C under packed conditions (details not found) is best for all Heliconia varieties, resulting in a shelf life of 8.6 to 11.6 days. Furthermore, brief storage of 4h at 20°C temperature before final storage also has positive effect on the post-harvest life of Heliconia (Liju, 2013). Darras (2020) also mentioned the significant problem of transporting H. bihai and other tropical ornamentals like Alpinia, Dendrobium, Phalaenopsis, Strelitzia reginae, and Anthurium andraeanum in mixed cargo with other low-temperature tolerant traditional cut flowers.

Very limited recent investigations and a few old investigations from several decades ago on Heliconia highlight the need for further research. In summary, storing of chilling-sensitive Heliconiaat low temperature may disrupt various physiological processes such as water regulation, mineral nutrition, respiration, and overall metabolism. Therefore, novel techniques, should be developed to either breed chilling-resistant varieties or reduce their sensitivity to low temperatures in order to support the commercialization of Heliconia (Figure 1).

FIGURE 1

Figure 1 Schematic form of hypothetical strategies to obviate chilling injury (CI) in Heliconia. Arrows with black colored solid line indicate different treatments under principal methods. Multicolored treatment boxes have been used for segregation and easy identification purpose. Arrows with multicolored solid lines indicate the physiological impacts of individual treatments while the multicolored dotted lines only serve the purpose of connectors to reach different target distant square boxes. (Sources: Mirdehghan and Rahemi, 2004; Erkan et al., 2005; Nayyar et al., 2005; Kagale et al., 2007; Marton et al., 2010; Guo et al., 2012; Aghdam and Bodbodak, 2014; Gupta and Musunuru, 2014; Kim and Kim, 2014; Zhu et al., 2016; Zhao et al., 2017; Shi et al., 2018; Aghdam et al., 2019; Golding, 2019; Hahne et al., 2019; Halder et al., 2019; Vats et al., 2019; Zhang et al., 2019a; Ahn et al., 2020; Ahn et al., 2020; Darras, 2020; Ding et al., 2020; Liu et al., 2020; Salesse-Smith et al., 2020; Sogvar et al., 2020; Giovannini et al., 2021; Jiao et al., 2021; Song et al., 2022; Wei et al., 2022; Castro-Cegrí et al., 2023; Hui et al., 2023).

Water Balance: The water balance and post-harvest physiology of cut units are intimately related. The fundamental components of water balance include water uptake, loss, and accumulation, as well as the potential interactions between them (Sankat and Mujaffar, 1994). Water uptake plays a vital role in maintaining optimal hydration levels in cells (Costa et al., 2021), reducing abscission, senescence, and wilting (Seman and Rafdi, 2019; Costa et al., 2021), preserving the turgidity of floral units (Halevy and Mayak, 1981), and slowing down respiratory and metabolic activities (Kamemoto, 1962).

The water uptake capacity of Heliconia cut stems is relatively poor (Dolselman and Broschat, 1986; Criley and Paull, 1993). Therefore, it is crucial to carefully manage the water status in cut stems. According to Criley and Paull (1993), the water uptake rate of H. psittacorum var. ‘Lady Di’ and ‘Sassy’ decreases significantly after harvesting. However, the same researchers found that the average water uptake rate of the ‘Parakeet’ cut stem (without any foliage) was 3 mL after 15 days of harvesting. This result suggests that there may be a genotypic variation in the water uptake capacity of Heliconia. The findings of Carrera-Alvarado et al. (2021) also support these findings, as they observed differences in the water uptake potential of H. wagneriana (as low as 6%) and H. psittacorum x H. spathocircinata cv. ‘Tropics’ (0.08 - 0.11 mL g-1). It is characteristic of Heliconia stems to have low solution absorption (Jaroenkit and Paull, 2003; Carrera-Alvarado et al., 2020). The impaired solution uptake may be due to a close relationship between the diameter of the xylem vessels and susceptibility to embolism, where wider vessels are more prone to cavitations compared to narrow vessels (Arriaga-Frías et al., 2016).

Generally, in Heliconia cut flowers, the leaves are removed from the stem before commercialization because they tend to dehydrate quickly due to the high stomatal density. However, Ka-ipo et al. (1989) stated that there is a positive correlation between the number of attached foliage and water uptake in cut stems. This view is supported by several researchers (Broschat and Donselman, 1983b; Tjia and Sheehan, 1984; Criley and Broschat, 1992; Criley and Paull, 1993). They mentioned that removing all foliage and leaf sheaths from cut inflorescences significantly reduces water uptake rates, leading to a deterioration in fresh weight. The presence of leaves influences water uptake in plants, and the absorption rate is proportional to the number of leaves attached to the flower stem. However, in Heliconia, there are no vascular connections between the flower stalk and the leaves, unlike in other floral species. This contributes to the low water uptake after harvest (Carrera-Alvarado et al., 2020). Criley and Broschat (1992) also mentioned the physiological explanation that there are no upper ground vascular connections between the flower, peduncle, and leaves, which prevents water translocation and accumulation in the flower, thus not affecting its vase life. It is hypothesized that the immaturity of the basal intercalary meristem of the inflorescence peduncle at the cutting base may be the reason for this (Criley and Broschat, 1992). However, Ka-ipo et al. (1989) found that the intercalary meristem is located near the flower and not close to the basal end of the peduncle, except for the ‘Parakeet’ cultivar. Therefore, this hypothetical explanation is not suitable for this particular variety of H. psittacorum.

Whatsoever, water uptake may get hampered due to water quality, xylem occlusion by microorganisms, and deposition of pectin and phenols (Jedrzejuk et al., 2012). In general, the tap water is used as an easily available vase liquid medium and contains the common salts such as Ca(HCO₃)₂and CaSO_4, which determine water hardness. Van Meeteren et al. (1999) mentioned a threshold value of 60 mg/L for Ca, <25 mgL^-1 for sulfate, and 30 mg/L for HCO3- in tap water. These researchers had raised an argument regarding the beneficial roles of distilled or deionized (DI) water as a control in post-harvest physiological studies. In their experiment on Chrysanthemum cut flowers, they found that DI water caused a sharp decrease in fresh weight of cut blooms after 1-3 days, while tap water did not show such an issue. Several researchers (Kirst and Bisson, 1979; Navarro et al., 2003) stated that DI water may mimic the normal physiological situation of an intact flower because xylem sap in intact plants contains various cations, anions, amino acids, and organic acids. However, Zimmermann (1978), in line with Van Meeteren’s argument, stated that drawing distilled water through stem segments progressively decreases the rate of conductance, but this can be eliminated by using tap water or a dilute osmoticum (e.g., 10 mM NaCl). Hutchinson et al. (2004) also confirmed the negative impacts of DI water on the post-harvest physiology of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) cut flowers. According to Halevy and Mayak (1981) and van Doorn (2012), this phenomenon may make water conductance in Heliconia stems more complex. Hence, this aspect should caution post-harvest researchers before using DI water for vase life improvement in Heliconia.

Different plant growth regulators (PGRs) such as BA and GA, as well as chemical substances like NaOCl, citric acid, sucrose, STS, HQC, and HQS, may also be used to maintain the components of water balance, as proven in Lisianthus (Musembi et al., 2013) and tuberose (Hutchinson et al., 2004) cut flowers. Tjia and Sheehan (1984) reported on the inefficiency of 8-HQC (antimicrobial agent) to improve the water uptake and prolong vase life in Heliconia. Microbial-induced stem plugging, often known as ‘physiological’ stem-plugging, occurs due to wounds or injuries at the stem end(Rogers, 1973). According to Rogers, the plugging may be caused by oxidative exudates resulting from the phosphorylation process of damaged cells, and the plugs may consist of pectin degradation products (Burdett, 1970). Furthermore, microorganisms can secrete enzymes (tannins, peroxidase) or other metabolic products that form viscous materials composed of calcium and magnesium salts of oxidized tannins. These materials move with the transpirational stream, causing pectin degradation and subsequent plugging (Rogers, 1973). This issue can be addressed by using an acidic preservative solution with a pH of 3-4.

Tjia and Sheehan (1984) found that the increased rate of water uptake during the nighttime is higher than during the daytime. This may be due to the high root hydrostatic pressure, which influences the flow of water uptake to the flower. For example, in H. psittacorum, a 2-fold increase has been observed. Folha et al. (2016) evaluated the benefits of periodic cutting (at intervals of 24 hours and 48 hours) of the base (1 cm in length) of peduncles of H. psittacorum cv. ‘Golden Torch’, as well as the renewal of vase water (deionized), in maintaining water balance components, fresh and dry mass, and post-harvest longevity. They found that these two strategies, at a 24-hour interval, optimize the restoration of water potential, leading to greater tissue hydration and maintenance of post-harvest quality. Similar results were also obtained in H. wagneriana by cutting the inflorescence peduncle every 2 days (Costa et al., 2015). After being removed from the plant, the flower starts to experience moisture stress. At this stage, the upward movement of the xylem water column draws air bubbles to accumulate at the cut end. These air bubbles, lodged against the cross wall of one of the xylem vessels, impede moisture flow and consequently reduce water uptake. Vacuum infiltration of the stem end, the use of acidified water (pH 3.5), calcium nitrate, and enzyme inhibitors (such as azide and DNP) promote normal water uptake and help regain turgidity (Rogers, 1973). Except for Anthurium, no significant investigations regarding the linkage between water balance and vase life improvement have been reported for other tropical ornamental plants. However, relevant reports are summarized in Table 5 to maintain the breadth and conciseness of the article.

3 Preservative solutions

The detachment of cut blooms, the actively metabolizing plant part, from the mother plant deprives them of the raw materials that are essential for a myriad of metabolic processes. Therefore, the need arises to externally supply these naturally available essentials. Generally, water, anti-senescent substances (e.g., benzimidazole, kinetin, benzyladenine, etc.), and respirable substrates (i.e., sucrose, glucose) are highly demanded substances required to maintain excised blooms in a decorative form (Rogers, 1973). Additionally, various chemicals (e.g., STS [silver thiosulfate], AgNO3 [silver nitrate], citric acid, 8-HQ [hydroxyquinoline], boric acid, Al2(SO4)3 [aluminum sulfate], sodium hypochlorite, NO [nitric oxide]-based donor compounds, 1-MCP [1-methyl cyclopropane], etc.) and growth regulators (e.g., gibberellins, cytokinins, auxins, etc.) can be provided through pulsing (momentary treatment), holding (vase) solutions, or postharvest fumigation treatments (Badiyan et al., 2004; Janowska and Andrzejak, 2023) with the aim of improving the post-harvest life of cut blooms. In the following sections, the functions of the aforementioned substances to prolong the post-harvest life of Heliconia blooms are delineated.

3.1 Chemicals based preservatives

Based on the bibliographic searches, the overall idea of a low water uptake capacity by the Heliconia inflorescence’s peduncle has been acknowledged. It has been found that this problem cannot be improved by the use of various vase life-extending chemical components, either alone or in combination. However, exceptional cases have also been discovered. The research outcomes of Broschat and Donselman (1983a); Ka-ipo et al. (1989), and Tjia and Sheehan (1984) can support the aforementioned statement.

8-hydroxyquinoline citrate or sulfate (8-HQC or S), sucrose, silver thiosulfate (STS), dithiothreitol (DTE), citric acid, etc., are commonly used preservatives in Heliconia (Broschat and Donselman, 1983b; Bredmose, 1986; Ka-ipo et al., 1989; Whittaker, 1993; Malakar et al., 2019). Among these, 8-HQ salts and sucrose possess multifarious potential properties, such as anti-desiccant and anti-microbial components, and the ability to maintain balanced water content. The preservative-based solutions prepared using non-deionized water containing less than 200 ppm of total dissolved salts usually result in satisfactory water uptake, as reported by Rogers (1973). Costa et al. (2015) found improved post-harvest longevity in H. wagneriana after pre-treatment with 10% and 20% sucrose solutions and holding solutions of 30 and 75 mg/L of AgNO3. Liju (2013) discovered that pulsing with a solution of 5% sucrose + 200 ppm 8-HQ for 6 hours, followed by a holding solution of 5% sucrose + 100 ppm 8-HQ, extended the post-harvest period in seven varieties of Heliconia. Sarkar et al. (2022) also obtained similar results for different Heliconia genotypes using 8-HQC-based holding solutions. Recently, Malakar et al. (2019) evaluated the consequences of different vase solutions on the post-harvest durability and quality of Heliconia cut inflorescences available in West Bengal, India. They used silver nitrate (AgNO3): 1500 ppm, calcium chloride (CaCl2): 750 mg/L, citric acid: 200 mg/L in combination with 8-HQC: 500 mg/L and sucrose: 2%. The treatment combinations of AgNO3, CaCl2, and citric acid, along with 8-HQC and sucrose, were found to be the most effective for all the Heliconia genotypes, prolonging vase life (up to 7 days on average, compared to the control of 7-8 days) and improving other features such as pigment retention, solution uptake rate, and enzymatic activities (high catalase [CAT], peroxidase [POD], and low lipid peroxidation). However, they mentioned that the performance may vary depending on the species and variety. Additionally, the spray of bovine serum albumin (BSA): 50 mg/L was found to prolong vase life by almost 2-fold in ‘Golden Torch’, as reported by Mangave et al. (2013).

Holley (1960) estimated that as much as one-third of a flower’s shelf life may be influenced by its pre-harvest environment, while the remaining two-thirds are determined by postharvest maintenance. One of the reasons for the qualitative deterioration of cut blooms is the depletion of respirable substrates, although there is a connection between the amount of reserved dry matter content and the shortage of respirable substrates (Rogers, 1973). According to the same researcher, exposing the excised units to incidental light increases the photosynthetic capacity and production of photosynthates, indirectly alleviating the scarcity of respirable substrates. A carbon dioxide-enriched growing environment (pre-harvest) also influences the storage of more photosynthates (Shaw and Rogers, 1964; Mattson and Widmer, 1971).The physiological process known as “respiratory metabolism” is closely associated with the post-harvest improvement of cut blooms. A shift in respiratory quotient is observed in isolated blooms, with Hew and Yip (1987) estimating the highest respiratory quotient of 1.0 (in excised petals) compared to 0.5 (in in situ blooms at the tight bud stage) in Aranda orchid petal cells. They also mentioned that in cut blooms, carbohydrate metabolism predominantly occurs via the EMP pathway (the synthetic conversion of glucose to pyruvate), and there is a shift towards cyanide-sensitive respiration. Additionally, sucrose not only serves as a source of carbohydrates (Malakar et al., 2019) but also helps protect the ultrastructure of chromoplasts, resulting in pigment retention (Singh et al., 2008). Sucrose also aids in maintaining water balance, keeping the bract cells turgid by influencing osmotic pressure (Halevy and Mayak, 1981).While Tjia and Sheehan (1984) mentioned that 8-HQC or 8-HQS does not have any impact on solution uptake or the elimination of microbial occlusion, Malakar et al. (2019) found the beneficial impact of this germicide on extending vase life.

According to Subhashini et al. (2011), Ag++ ions help to prolong the vase life, while Ca++ ions reduce the respiratory rate and contribute to cell wall toughness, preventing cell breakage or collapse. The broad antimicrobial effects of AgNO3 are well-known, as Ag++ ions replace the hydrogen cations (H+) of sulfhydryl or thiol groups (-SH) on the cell membranes of bacteria, resulting in membrane integrity loss and cell death (Feng et al., 2000; Li et al., 2020; Elatafi and Fang, 2022). Several researchers (Jiang et al., 2004; Foldbjerg et al., 2009; Elatafi and Fang, 2022) have revealed that Ag nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) are more effective than other forms of Ag because they possess a larger surface area-to-volume ratio, making them more efficient as a biocide. Additionally, Ag-NPs have lower toxicity effects and optimize the content of soluble solids (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO), pyrogallol peroxidase (POD), and pectin methylesterase (PME).

The pH of the solution also has a significant impact on vase life. A neutral or alkaline pH is not suitable for maintaining satisfactory post-harvest quality (Reid and Kofranek, 1980). The pH of plant cell sap is generally between 3-3.5 (Khan et al., 2009; Gupta and Dubey, 2018); therefore, an acidic solution or the addition of organic acids like citric acid can yield good results. Low-pH water (pH 3.5) travels faster in the water-conducting system (xylem), thereby preventing or reducing wilting during the post-harvest stage. Commercial rehydration solutions, such as Hydraflor, often contain sufficient citric acid to lower the pH of the vase solution to 3.5 (source: https://ag.umass.edu/greenhouse-floriculture/fact-sheets/sugar-acidity-in-preservative-solutions-for-field-grown-cut).

Some eco-friendly solutions could also serve the purpose of extending the vase life, as evidenced in the case of Heliconia ‘Golden Torch’. Shokalu et al. (2021) studied the impact of aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller.) and moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) solutions on prolonging the display life of the said Heliconia variety. They found that the combination of aloe vera solution (5%) along with 4% sucrose could improve the water balance components, resulting in a 67.4% increase in open bracts and 78.9% relative water content (RWC). In the case of Anthurium, the use of Stevia rebaudiana extract at a concentration of 0.1 mgL^-1along with 10 mgL^-1 of nano-silver had been found to enhance the water uptake rate after fifteen days of placing the cut bloom in the solution (Amin, 2017). The scientific and commercial approaches towards using organic extracts as potent preservatives for cut tropical ornamentals are still in the early stages.

Regarding other tropical ornamentals, except for Strelitzia and Anthurium (Table 5), very limited published reports have been observed. For example, in the case of Globba, several researchers (Criley, 2014; Branney, 2005; Chuengpanya et al. 2016) have mentioned that the longevity of its bracts may last up to 1-1.5 months, but scientific authentication is lacking. Despite having significant cut flower attributes, there are no scientific reports available, although an article by Aung et al. (year missing) on “post-harvest quality and vase life of ornamental cut flower G. orixensisRoxb.” has been found, but its accessibility is limited. The status of Hedychium is also the same; the frequent emergence of new flowers and its limited use as a cut flower may have hindered post-harvest researchers from conducting investigations on standardizing chemical formulations for bud opening and extending vase life. The current scenario emphasizes the importance of conducting research on Hedychium to bring it to the forefront and establish its use as a commercial tropical cut bloom.

3.2 Growth regulators based preservatives

Mangave et al. (2013) investigated the role of growth regulators spray (GA, BA, and Alar [synonymously Daminozide]) in extending the quality and post-harvest life of the ‘Golden Torch’ cultivar of H. psittacorum x H. spathocircinata. The spray of GA: 100 mg/L had yielded satisfactory effects in this case by decreasing enzymatic activity and lipid peroxidation, while also improving factors such as the percent absolute integrity (PAI) of the bract cell membrane (which delays bract cell death), enhancement in inflorescence fresh weight, vase life (2-fold increase over control), and removal of oxidative stress. Malakar et al. (2019) also found the positive impact of GA3 at a dose rate of 80 ppm on vase life extension of different genotypes of Heliconia.

BA is a synthetic cytokinin (CK) (Paull and Chantrachit, 2001; e-source: https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive/b/6-benzyladenine.html) that has been reported to increase the vase life of diverse tropical ornamentals, including Heliconia. Paull and Chantrachit (2001) stated that the use of BA, in both spray and dipping forms, could extend the vase life of H. psittacorum var. ‘Sexy Pink’ inflorescences up to 21 and 18 days, respectively. Similarly, the use of BA in these forms could retain the keeping quality of ornamentally significant leaves and flowers of the ‘Andromeda’ variety for up to 32 and 31 days, respectively. BA helps delay both bract darkening and abscission. Another study on the effect of BA was carried out by de Moraes et al. (2005) in H. latispatha. They found a linear increase in vase life with increasing concentrations of BA spray (100, 200, and 300 mg/L). The longest vase life, 1.85-fold increase, was obtained at a concentration of 300 mg/L of BA. The dipping or spray of BA at a dose rate of 200 mg/L also extended the vase life of the ‘Nickeriensis’ variety of Heliconia by about 8 days, as reported by Whittaker (1993). According to Whittaker (1993) and Costa et al. (2021), the treatment using BA at a concentration of 200 mg/L increased the vase life of Heliconia genotypes (var. ‘Sexy Pink’ and ‘Andromeda’) by 1.2 to 2.5-fold.

GA reduces senescence rates by regulating cell membrane permeability and protein degradation (Shaul et al., 1996) and by influencing the action of ABA (Kumar et al., 2014; Costa et al., 2016). Cytokinins (CKs) and GAs are considered inhibitors of aging; however, unfortunately, their content in plant tissues decreases during the aging process, while the levels of regulators that accelerate aging, such as ethylene, salicylic acid (SA), brassinosteroids (BR), abscisic acid (ABA), and jasmonic acid (JA), increase (Asami and Nakagawa, 2018; Janowska and Andrzejak, 2022). During the aging of petal or perianth cells, active membrane-damaging enzymes, proteolysis, accelerated breakdown of pigments, and a large amount of free radicals contribute to the destruction of cell components (Rogers, 1973). A high content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes oxidative stress, leading to damage to cellular macromolecules and membranes, as well as increased lipid peroxidation (Janowska and Andrzejak, 2022). Application of BA and GA3 significantly reduces protein degradation (Hayden, 2003), and both act as pigment protectors (Rabiza-Świder et al., 2012). Moreover, pre-soaking plant parts in GA3 solution before planting and harvesting stages noticeably enhances the content of hydrocarbons, especially fructose and glucose, thereby improving post-harvest life (Janowska et al., 2022; Janowska and Andrzejak, 2022). In other related tropical ornamentals, the use of growth regulators has been found to be limited (Table 5).

4 Other strategies to improve after-harvest life

Since water balance is the ultimate factor in preventing desiccation injury and subsequent senescence, maintaining the rate of water uptake and minimizing evaporative water loss are two vital factors (Criley and Broschat, 1992). Given the circumstances, the use of anti-transpirants can be a viable solution.

Ka-ipo et al. (1989) mentioned that dipping ‘Parakeet’ types of H. psittacorum in a ‘Wilt Pruf’ solution (dilution rate 1:10) or ‘Wax’ solution (dilution rate 1:4) could increase the vase life by up to 36%. Dipping ‘Nickeriensis’ type in a ‘Folicote’ solution (dilution rate 1:40) could also extend the vase life by around 26% as reported by Whittaker (1993). Carrera-Alvarado et al. (2021) conducted a study on the impact of waxing and salicylic acid (1mM) treatment on the post-harvest life of H. wagneriana under low temperature (13°C and 84% RH) conditions. They found that the bract tissue of waxed peduncles showed optimal enzymatic activity, low oxidative stress, good water accumulation (maintenance of bract turgidity), and a satisfactory shelf life of an extra 2-3 days compared to 9 days under control conditions. In the case of the ‘Golden Torch’ cultivar, graded concentrations of wax emulsions (0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, and 1%) were found to enhance the shelf life from 10-11.78 days, while the fresh weight increased by 48% (Powar et al., 2014). However, several researchers [Criley and Broschat, 1992, Broschat and Donselman (1987)] expressed concerns about the limited efficacy of waxing in extending the vase life of Heliconia genotypes. This may be due to the inability to cover the entire bract surface, especially the groove areas, while the waxy surface of the bract cuticle could be another reason, as reported by Criley and Paull (1993).

Another effective strategy may be hot water treatment, as the deterioration in keeping quality can also be caused by disease infestation. Therefore, this treatment may minimize the problem. In the case of H. chartacea var. ‘Sexy Pink’, H. caribaea (Red), and H. psittacorum (Red), hot water treatment (49°C temperature for 12 minutes) has been found to increase the keeping quality for a few days (Criley and Broschat, 1992). However, no further details regarding the threshold level of temperature and duration have been reported by any researchers for Heliconia.

Among other tropical ornamentals, the application of waxing treatment has been noticed in Strelitzia and Etlingera. For example, de Paula et al. (2021) evaluated the impact of canauba wax coating (20% and 40%) on the foliage of S. juncea and S. reginae, resulting in an extended post-harvest longevity of 16th day for S. reginae and 18th day for S. juncea, low leaf mass loss percentage, and minimal visual quality impairment. Additionally, the application of 3% carnauba wax on the bracts of E. elatior var. Porcelana (at semi-open and fully open stages) effectively maintained water balance, carbohydrate content (starch and total soluble sugar), promoted bract expansion, and flower opening (Mattos et al., 2017; Mattos et al., 2018).

In Strelitzia, the major post-harvest problem is the development of saprophytic mold, leading to floret desiccation and bract darkening (Jaroenkit and Paull, 2003; Balas et al., 2006; Koley, 2013; Criley, 2014). The secretion of mucilage during anthesis encourages Botrytis growth, while post-harvest nectar and slime production facilitate saprophytic mold growth (Jaroenkit and Paull, 2003; Criley, 2014). Jaroenkit and Paull (2003) suggested dipping Strelitzia inflorescences in a solution of benomyl or thiobendazole (200 mg/L concentration) to address this issue.

‘Geotropic curvature’ has been mentioned as a serious concern in Alpinia (Criley and Paull, 1993). Dipping red ginger inflorescences in TIBA (tri-iodobenzoic acid; an auxin movement inhibitor) could be useful in controlling the geotropic curvature, as reported by Chantrachit (1999). Hot water treatment (49°C for 12 minutes) and maintaining a vertical posture during shipment may be other viable remedies (Hara et al., 1997). In the case of Heliconia, no such post-harvest issues have been documented.

To restrict insect and pest infestations, irradiation treatment of 250 Gy may be useful (Sangwanangkul et al., 2008). To minimize minimal irradiation injury, hot water treatment (40.0-47.5°C) for a duration of 20-30 minutes may be applied, although the physiological basis for improvements after heat treatment is yet to be unraveled.

Topolines (Ts), ionic liquids, and quaternary ammonium salts with selected organic cations and GA3 anions have been used in florist greens (ornamental foliage) to improve post-harvest longevity (Janowska and Andrzejak, 2022). Therefore, their implementation may also be introduced in Heliconia.

The Controlled Atmospheric Storage (CA) system, which relies on low levels of O2 (0.5-1% for flowers, but not 0, as it may cause undesirable anaerobic breakdown reactions) and increased levels of CO2, can be implemented to reduce respiration rates and preserve respirable substrates during post-harvest storage (Rogers, 1973). This approach may also be applied to Heliconia. All tropical ornamentals, including Heliconia, are ethylene insensitive, but an exception has been found in Strelitzia. According to Bayogan et al. (2008), Strelitzia is not highly sensitive to ethylene, but its longevity may be affected by exogenous ethylene exposure. Pre-treatment using 500 ml L-1 of 1-MCP and 0.2 mM STS for 6 hours at a temperature of 20°C can reduce ethylene-related injuries, as reported by Macnish et al. (2009), who exposed Strelitzia inflorescences to 1 µL L-1 of ethylene for 24 hours. This may be useful in preventing any undesirable physiological changes that may occur in tropical ornamentals.

4.1 Post-harvest handling

At this phase, the harvested produce is subjected to cleaning and grading processes, which are considered preceding steps to final packaging. Cleaning is a crucial step in post-harvest handling, particularly during export. In Heliconia, insect disinfection and additional cleaning and treatment steps are typically followed because the floral structures (bracts) of Heliconia provide natural hiding sites for many insects (Jaroenkit and Paull, 2003). In Hawaii, the conventional hand wash along with insecticidal soap is usually employed, and washing in a detergent solution followed by rinsing with pressurized water flow can be useful not only for cleaning purposes but also to remove field heat. For Heliconia inflorescences’ disinfection, a solution of 50% Diazinon 40 WP (160g/100 L-1 of water) + 0.18 L of light volck oil or a solution of 57 EC malathion (1 ml L-1) can be used (Nowak and Rudnicki, 1990; Criley and Paull, 1993). Hot water treatment has also been found to be effective for disinfection purposes (Hara et al., 1997). However, recent advanced research approaches in tropical ornamentals, such as the usage of ultraviolet-C radiation for sanitation purposes, are not yet available, although they are being used to characterize the effects on the sanitary quality of castor oil seeds (de Araujo et al., 2019).

Regarding Strelitzia, cleaning before the packaging of the inflorescence is another essential step. The structural characteristics of Strelitzia inflorescence, which are inappropriate as habitats or resting places for various insects and pests, have minimized the need for mandatory cleaning, except for simple washing with water to remove field dust and heat (Jaroenkit and Paull, 2003).

In terms of grading standards for Heliconia, to meet the “Hawaii Fancy Grade” standards, each inflorescence must have at least 2 open bracts, while other units must be well-formed, and the minimum length of the inflorescence peduncle must be 15 cm (Hawaii Department of Agriculture, 1972). For Anthurium, grading is related to descriptive and visual aspects of the spathe and spadix, including color, shine, turgidity, and the occurrence of spots and necrosis (Cuquel and Polack, 2010). The standard grading of Anthurium cut blooms based on spathe width is as follows: >15 cm - Grade (G1), 13-15 cm - G2, 11-13 cm - G3, 9-11 cm - G4, 7-9 cm - G5, 5-7 cm - G6, and >5 cm - G7 (Ng et al., year missing). Several scientific reports on digital vision-based grading systems for Anthurium have been observed (Hemming et al., 2010; Soleimanipour et al., 2019; Soleimanipour and Chegini, 2020), while this aspect is completely unknown for other tropical ornamentals. In summary, there is a lack of investigation reports on the characterization of mandatory export grading systems for tropical ornamental cut flowers, highlighting the importance of conducting intensive research on this topic in the near future.

Overall, proper post-harvest handling can affirm the retention of all essential aesthetic attributes which along with increase in market importance could also broaden the participation potential of group of tropical flowers’ in value-added based enterprises like in bio-color and alternative dietary sources [i.e edible ornamentals; eg. edible status of bracts of ‘Torch Ginger’ (Lekawatana and Pituck, 1998)] sectors, in ‘green chemistry’ industries [eg. use of Alpinia plant part’s extract for ‘green synthesis’ of nano-particles (Zhang et al., 2019b; Shinde et al., 2021)] etc. But the negligence has impeded the involvement of this specialty cut flowers’ group in value-added studies as mentioned by Kreissig (2019) and Quinaya and d’Almeida (2019).

5 Advancement in packaging: potent shield of post-harvest quality

Packaging acts as a protective cover to absorb shock during the transport of cut flowers. Not only that, it helps maintain the optimum physiological condition of the flowers throughout the transportation distance, ensuring their quality remains intact. Appropriate packaging, combined with pulsing, is helpful in ensuring fresh quality for consumers and extending the vase-life of the flowers (Senapati et al., 2016). However, the unusual structure, extravagant size, and weight of tropical ornamentals, including Heliconia, pose significant challenges in terms of packaging and transport. Viable measures to meet this challenge are almost absent, with only a handful of reports available (Table 6). Due to the large size and heavy weight of Heliconia inflorescences, large containers packed with moistened shredded papers are used to maintain humidity and prevent bruising (Criley and Paull, 1993). Smaller Heliconia species like H. psittacorum and H. angusta are usually packed in bunches of 5 and 10, respectively, while larger and heavier species are packed individually in cartons, with plastic film or net sleeves used to minimize bruising (Criley and Paull, 1993). Liju (2013) reported that packing Heliconia inflorescences with a wet cotton plug at the peduncle end and using polythene lining yields the best results. For Strelitzia, cardboard containers sized 102x43x28 cm are generally used for packaging cut units (Criley and Paull, 1993). To keep pace with the recent demand for tropical cut flowers, the adoption of advanced packaging systems such as Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), Controlled Atmosphere Packaging (CAP), Composite Packaging, Antimicrobial/Antifungal Packaging (AP), Edible Packaging (EP), and Nano Packaging (NP) is crucial (Yadav et al., 2022). However, none of these packaging systems are currently in practice for tropical cut flowers, although they are commonly used in fruit crops. These advanced packaging systems rely on the principles of reducing the rate of oxygen consumption, maintaining high CO2 concentration to prevent ethylene production, and extending the shelf life of the produce (Murmu and Mishra, 2018a and Mangaraj et al., 2014; Murmu and Mishra, 2018b; Etemadipoor et al., 2019; Wang et al., 2020). They also maintain the proper gaseous environment around the packed produce, reduce respiration and biochemical reaction rates, and impede transpiration through the use of packaging materials such as polymeric films like PP, LDPE, etc. (Forato et al., 2015; Mamede et al., 2016; González-Reza et al., 2018; Teixeira, 2020), thus keeping the packed produce fresh and turgid (Yadav et al., 2022). Due to stringent environmental legislations, the use of plastic-based films has been minimized, and the usage of biodegradable films or edible films or coatings (commonly used in fruits like guava) is being encouraged (Yadav et al., 2022). The implementation of these techniques for Heliconia and other related species appears to be absent, possibly due to a lack of knowledge, negligence, and suppression, in addition to other physiological bottlenecks mentioned in preceding sections. Since chilling stress is one of the major setbacks in the export of tropical cut flowers, the use of novel or advanced packaging systems resistant to chilling stress should be explored for their export worldwide (Figure 2). Furthermore, the weight of tropical flowers, especially Heliconia, significantly restricts their export due to increased air freight charges. To maintain an optimum cost-benefit ratio, air transport is found to be nonviable, and the adoption of surface or marine transport is unquestionable due to the prolonged duration. To overcome these hindrances, weight reduction methods, the development of low-weight Heliconia varieties, or the use of advanced and equipped means of transport need to be devised. In this context, the use of a novel dried form of cut units, known as ‘Dehydrated cut inflorescences,’ may be a viable way to reduce the weight of Heliconia cut flowers, although this aspect remains unexplored. Additionally, the employment of cutting-edge molecular aids and functional technological advancements may facilitate the export of Heliconia seamlessly. Summarily, significant improvement in packaging of tropical flowers ought to be one of the imperative aspects of several future thrust areas (Figure 3) while active utilization of frontier bio-technological aides may also be a viable option to achieve the target in totality (Figure 4).

TABLE 6

Table 6 State-of-art of packaging and transport in tropical cut flowers.

FIGURE 2

Figure 2 Graphical abstract of hypothetical strategies to alleviate CI in Heliconia resorting advance packaging system (APS) Source: Etemadipoor et al., 2020; Yadav et al., 2022. The ‘Solid’ lines are merely the connecting lines. Black solid lines indicate the key advanced packaging systems. Other multi-colored solid lines show the packaging components of the respective packaging systems. Other multi-colored arrows show the other details of the respective packaging systems.

FIGURE 3

Figure 3 Future thrust areas on the Tropical Ornamental Cut Flowers (TOCFs) and its subsequent expected outcomes.

FIGURE 4

Figure 4 Hypothesized strategies for post-harvest improvement by biotechnological interventions in Heliconia. Sources: Bleecker and Schaller, 1996; Aida et al., 1998; Antunes and Sfakiotakis, 2000; Kosugi et al., 2002; Shibuya et al., 2014; Yin et al., 2015; Kim et al., 2017; Ren et al., 2017; Zhu and Liao, 2017; Deng et al., 2018; Woo et al., 2018; Yagi, 2018; Ahn et al., 2020; Carrera-Alvarado et al., 2021; Costa et al., 2021; Giovannini et al., 2021; Verma et al., 2021; Fang et al., 2021; Nguyen and Lim, 2022.

6 Conclusion

Tropical cut flowers are vital components of the floriculture industry. However, their commercialization has been hindered by non-commercialization, unprofessionalism, and various loopholes in research and extension activities, as well as in physiological studies related to these flowers even after possessing unique appearance and diverse range of colors. Moreover, the unconventional structure of tropical cut flowers, along with environmental filters and physiological intricacies, has also limited their widespread cultivation.

These have caused the impetus to pen up all available published scientific information(s) as well as knowledge-based views explicitly on Heliconia which is a chosen model crop as well as the ambassador of TCFs group. This review summarizes all possible pre-harvest, harvest and post-harvest factors which are the potent determiner of after-harvest life of them. The major issues regarding tropical flowers are the ‘low temperature sensitivity’ which restricts to ferry with other traditional cut flowers and ‘packaging’ for the out of the turn shape, size and weight. The hypothetical measures to rid both the said concerns have also been highlighted which may hint some useful cues for the conductance of further investigations. Furthermore, the cursory overview on contextual aspects of other related tropical ornamental members may also assist the readers to associate with the current realistic research scenario. Summarily, our approach may be considered as an initiative for the promotion of this specialty group of flowers.

Successful mitigation of all concerns and the realistic application of all associated endeavors, from cultivation to effective post-harvest measures, should be prioritized as future thrust areas. Moreover, the utilization of high-throughput genetic tools could be a significant boon for tropical ornamentals and researchers, facilitating exemplary improvements in post-harvest quality and addressing specific issues related to after-harvest handling of tropical cut flowers. This paradigm shift could position tropical cut flowers favorably in the global flower trade. Fruitful implementation, professional conduct, and openness to embrace innovation may transform this specialty group of cut flowers from an “unprofitable niche” into a remunerative and commercially viable component of the flower market.

The paved position of tropical flowers beyond boosting the iterated fact i.e global floral trade, can potently be useful in value-addition sector. Of late value-addition is one of the cardinal sectors of post-harvest industries, especially during the current ‘Go Green’ era. However, the multihued floral structures (like, inflorescences of tropical ornamental genotypes’, bi-color foliage of H. metallica etc.) and characteristics of a few botanical plant parts (like, fibrous pseudostem of H. bihai etc.) can endorse their eligibility to produce value-added products; as for example the production of eco-colorants and sources of natural cellulosic fibers. Furthermore, the botanical extracts of them may also be used for green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) while for edible ornamental’s sector, they are almost unexplored. Hitherto, the rarest utilization of the members of specialty cut flowers in the said fields has been evidenced. In nutshell, considering the potential future prospects of these specialty TCFs, intensive scientific investigation may be a laudable approach.

Author contributions

MM, PDOP, and MB conceived and conceptualized the article. The overall review of the entire paper has been made by MB, PDOP, and ARCN. Final compilation and editing were done by MM and MB. All authors contributed to the article and approved the submitted version.

Funding

This work was supported by a research grant funded by CNPQ - Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (309421/2021-7), FAPEMIG - Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais (APQ-02575-21), CAPES -Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (PROEX-PPGF/UFLA). The funding sponsor had no role in the design of the study; in the collection, analyses of information(s); in the writing of the manuscript, and in the decision to publish the results.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

References

Abadie, T., Berreta, A. (2001). “Characterization and evaluation of phylogenetic resources,” in Strategy on phylogenetic resources for southern cone countries (Montevideo Uruguay: PROCISUR. Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture IICA), 89–97.

Google Scholar

Abalo, J. E., Morales, L. G. (1982). Twenty-five species of heliconia from Colombia. Phytologia 51 (1), 1–61.

Google Scholar

Agboka, D., Criley, R. A. (2002). Control of vegetative growth and flowering in white ginger Hedychium coronarium Koenig. Bull. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 10, 7–8. Available at: https://reeis.usda.gov/web/crisprojectpages/0073302-flowering-control-of-tropical-ornamentals.html

Google Scholar

Aghdam, M. S., Bodbodak, S. (2014). Postharvest heat treatment for mitigation of chilling injury in fruits and vegetables. Food Bioproc. Tech. 7, 37–53. doi: 10.1007/s11947-013-1207-4

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Aghdam, M. S., Naderi, R., Jannatizadeh, A., Babalar, M., Sarcheshmeh, M. A. A., Faradonbe, M. Z. (2016). Impact of exogenous GABA treatments on endogenous GABA metabolism in anthurium cut flowers in response to postharvest chilling temperature. Plant Physiol. Biochem. 106, 11–15. doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2016.04.045

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Aghdam, M. S., Naderi, R., Sarcheshmeh, M. A. A., Babalar, M. (2015). Amelioration of postharvest chilling injury in anthurium cut flowers by γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) treatments. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 110, 70–76. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2015.06.020

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Aghdam, M. S., Jannatizadeh, A., Nojadeh, M. S., Ebrahimzadeh, A. (2019). Exogenous melatonin ameliorates chilling injury in cut anthurium flowers during low temperature storage. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 148, 184–191. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2018.11.008

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ahn, C. H., Ramya, M., An, H. R. (2020). Progress and challenges in the improvement of ornamental plants by genome editing. Plants 9, 687. doi: 10.3390/plants9060687

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Aida, R., Yoshida, T., Ichimura, K., Goto, R., Shibata, M. (1998). Extension of flower longevity in transgenic torenia plants incorporating ACC oxidase transgene. Plant Sci. 138, 91–101. doi: 10.1016/S0168-9452(98)00139-3

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Akamine, E. K. (1976). Postharvest handling of tropical ornamental cut crops in hawaii. HortSci. 11 (2), 125–127. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.11.2.125

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Aliniaeifard, S., Falahi, Z., DianatiDaylami, S., Li, T., Woltering, E. (2020). Postharvest spectral light composition affects chilling injury in anthurium cut flowers. Front. Plant Sci. 11. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00846

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Amin, O. A. (2017). Influence of nanosilver and stevia extract on cut anthurium inflorescences. Middle East J. Appl. Sci. 7 (2), 299–313.

Google Scholar

Antunes, M. D. C., Sfakiotakis, E. M. (2000). Effect of high temperature stress on ethylene biosynthesis, respiration and ripening of ‘Hayward’ kiwifruit. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 20 (3), 251–259. doi: 10.1016/S0925-5214(00)00136-8

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Araújo, P. G. P. D., Albuquerque Filho, J. C. C. D., Silva, S. S. L., Castro, C. E. F. D., Gonçalves, C., Loges, V. (2018). Characterization and selection of torch ginger for cut flower. Ornam. Hortic. 24, 371–379. doi: 10.14295/oh.v24i4.1207

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Arriaga-Frías, A., Cruz-Guzmán, D. L. G. H., Mandujano-Piña, M. (2016). Conductividadhidráulicaentallosflorales de rosa cv. ‘Polo’ con diferentelongitud. Rev. Fitotec. Mex. 39, 233–239. Available at: http://www.scielo.org.mx/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S018773802016000300233&lng=es&tlng=es

Google Scholar

Asami, T., Nakagawa, Y. (2018). Preface to the special issue: brief review of plant hormones and their utilization in agriculture. J. Pestic. Sci. 43, 154–158. doi: 10.1584/jpestics.M18-02

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Attia, E. A., Gomaa, S. A. A., Hegazi, M. A. (2020). Effect of some fertilization treatments and spraying garlic extract on growth and flowering of Hedychium coronrium plants. Menoufia J. Plant Prod. 5 (8), 385–398. doi: 10.21608/mjppf.2020.172112

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Avendaño-Arrazate, C. H., Arrazate-Argueta, J. A., Ortíz-Curiel, S., Moreno-Pérez, E., Iracheta-Donjuan, L., Reyes-López, D., et al. (2017). Morphological characterization in wild species of Heliconias (Heliconia spp) in Mexico. Am. J. Plant Sci. 8 (6), 1210–1223. doi: 10.4236/ajps.2017.86080

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Azarhoosh, J., Hashemabadi, D., Asadpour, L., Kaviani, B. (2021). Extending vase life of cut strelitzia reginae flowers by cobalt chloride, cerium nitrate, silver nanoparticles and nanosil. Acta Sci. Pol. 20 (4), 89–99. doi: 10.24326/asphc.2021.4.8

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Badiyan, D., Wills, R. B. H., Bowyer, M. C. (2004). Use of nitric oxide donor compound to extend the vase life of cut flowers. HortSci 39 (6), 1371–1372. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.39.6.1371

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Balas, J., Coronado, P. A. G., Silva, J. A. T., Jayatilleke, M. P. (2006). Supporting post-harvest performance of cut-flowers using fresh-flower-refreshments and other vase-water-additives. Floriculture Ornamental Plant Biotechnol.: Adv. Topical Issues. 1, 612–629.

Google Scholar

Baskaran, V. (2022). Torch ginger (Etlingera elatior) – a new addition to flower basket. Available at: https://ciari.icar.gov.in/FC-Torch%20Ginger.html.

Google Scholar

Bayogan, E. R. V., Jaroenkit, T., Paull, R. E. (2008). Postharvest life of bird-of-Paradise inflorescences. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 48 (2), 259–263. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2007.10.010

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Bayogan, E. R. V., Gratuito, M. B. B. (2013). Vase life of torch ginger (Etlingera elatior) inflorescences as influenced by harvest maturity and 1-methylcyclopropene. Acta Hortic. 1088, 313–317. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2015.1088.52

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Berry, F., Kress, J. (1991). Heliconia identification guide (Washington DC, USA: Smithsonian Institution Press), 344. Available at: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-tropical-ecology/article/abs/f-berry-w-j-kress-1991-heliconia-an-identification-guidesmithsonian-institution-press-washington-dc-usa344-pages-clothback-isbn-1560980060-price-35-00-paperback-isbn-1560980079-price-16-95/3422D0B88965F25E6070FD74A1B13747.

Google Scholar

Bhattacharya, A., Bhattacharya, A. (2022). “Lipid metabolism in plants under low-temperature stress: a review,” in Physiological processes in plants under low temperature stress (Singapore: Springer), 409–516. doi: 10.1007/978-981-16-9037-2

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Bleecker, A. B., Schaller, G. E. (1996). The mechanism of ethylene perception. Plant Physiol. 111, 653–660. doi: 10.1104/Fpp.111.3.653

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Branney, T. M. E. (2005). Hardy gingers: including hedychium, roscoea, and zingiber (Portland, USA: Timber press), 267. Available at: https://www.cabdirect.org/cabdirect/abstract/20053128737.

Google Scholar

Bredmose, N. (1986). Post harvest ability of some new cut flowers. Acta Hortic. 205, 187–194. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1987.205.27

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Broschat, T. K., Donselman, H. M. (1983a). Production and postharvest culture of Heliconia psittacorum flowers in south Florida. Proc. Fla. State Hortic. Soc 96, 272–273.

Google Scholar

Broschat, T. K., Donselman, H. M. (1983b). Heliconias: a promising new cut flower crop. Hortic. Sci. 18, 1–2. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.18.1.2

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Broschat, T. K., Donselman, H. M. (1987). Potential of 57 species of tropical ornamental plants for cut foliage use. Hortic. Sci. 22 (5), 911–913. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.22.5.911

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Broschat, T. K., Donselman, H. M. (1988). Production and postharvest culture of red ginger in south Florida. Proc. Fla. State Hortic. Soc 101, 326–327.

Google Scholar

Buchanan-Wollaston, V. (2007). Senescence in plants. Available at: http://www.esalq.usp.br/lepse/imgs/conteudo_thumb/Senescence-in-plants.pdf.

Google Scholar

Budiarto, K. (2010). Spectral quality affects morphogenesis on anthurium plantlet during in vitro culture. J. Agric. Sci. 32 (3), 234–240. doi: 10.17503/agrivita.v32i3.20

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Bunya-atichart, K., Ketsa, S., van Doorn, W. G. (2004). Postharvest physiology of curcuma alismatifolia flowers. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 34 (2), 219–226. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2004.05.009

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Burdett, A. N. (1970). The cause of bent neck in cut roses. J. Am. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 95 (4), 427–431. doi: 10.21273/JASHS.95.4.427

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Carrera-Alvarado, G., Arévalo-Galarza, M. D. L., Velasco-Velasco, J., de-la-Cruz-Guzmán, G. H., Salinas-Ruíz, J., Baltazar-Bernal, O. (2021). Treatments to prolong the postharvest life of Heliconia wagneriana petersen. Ornam. Hortic. 27, 476–484. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v27i4.2376

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Carrera-Alvarado, G., de Lourdes Arévalo-Galarza, M., Velasco-Velasco, J., del Mar Ruiz-Posadas, L., Salinas-Ruíz, J., Baltazar-Bernal, O. (2020). Postharvest management of Heliconia psittacorum x h. spathocircinata cv. tropics. AgroProductividad 13 (12), 99–106. doi: 10.32854/agrop.v13i12.1926

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Castro, C. E. F., May, A., Gonçalves, C. (2006). Espécies de helicôniacomoflor de corte. Ornam. Hortic. 12 (2), 87–96. doi: 10.14295/rbho.v12i2.190

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Castro, C. E. F., May, A., Goncalves, C. (2007). Especies de heliconia comoflores de corte. Paris: presses universitaires de France. Ornam. Hortic. 12 (2), 87–96. doi: 10.14295/rbho.v12i2.190

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Castro, C. E. F., Moreira, S. R., Castro, A. C. R., Souza, F. V. D., Loges, V., Goncalves, C., et al. (2011). Evaluation of costaceae species for ornamental use. Rev. Bras. Hortic. Ornamental. 17, 63–74. doi: 10.14295/rbho.v17i1.719

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Castro, C. E. F., Moreira, S. R., Goncalves, C., Calandrelli, L. L. (2013). IAC cacheffo: new cultivar of the torch ginger (Etlingera elatior (Jack) × E. haemispherica (Bl) R.M. sm.) selected in the instituto agronomico (IAC)Brazil. Bull. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 19, 11. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2015.1104.64

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Castro-Cegrí, A., Sierra, S., Hidalgo-Santiago, L., Esteban-Muñoz, A., Jamilena, M., Garrido, D., et al. (2023). Postharvest treatment with abscisic acid alleviates chilling injury in zucchini fruit by regulating phenolic metabolism and non-enzymatic antioxidant system. Antioxidants 12 (1), 211. doi: 10.3390/antiox12010211

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

CBI Product Factsheet. (2016). Available at: https://www.cbi.eu/sites/default/files/market-information/product-factsheet-european-market-fresh-cut-tropical-flowers-2016.pdf.

Google Scholar

Chanasut, U. (2004). Treatments to maintain the postharvest quality of cut patumma (Curcuma alismatifolia var. ‘chiang mai pink´) flowers. Acta Hortic. 682, 1097–1102. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.682.144

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Chandel, A., Thakur, M., Singh, G., Dogra, R., Bajad, A., Soni, V., et al. (2022). Flower regulation in floriculture: an agronomic concept and commercial use. J. Plant Growth Regul. 42, 1–26. doi: 10.1007/s00344-022-10688-0

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Changjeraja, R., Potaphon, N., Ruamrungsr, S., Mekchay, S. (2008). Effect of photoperiod on growth and flowering of Curcuma alismatifoliaGagnep. Acta Hortic. 788, 137–140. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2008.788.16

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Chantrachit, T. (1999). Postharvest physiology of red ginger inflorescence (Alpinia purpurataVieill k. schum) (University of Hawai'i at Manoa Dissertations Publishing). Available at: https://www.proquest.com/openview/d9565c345b148ff29a874a2c68cfa3e3/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y.

Google Scholar

Chaudhari, P. K., Patel, R. B., Patel, G. D., Chawla, S. L. (2016). Standardization of holding solutions on keeping quality and vase life of torch ginger [Etlingera elatior (Jack) RM sm.]. Adv. Life Sci. 5 (4), 1442–1446.

Google Scholar

Chen, W. L., Ko, Y. T. (2021). Exogenous hydrogen peroxide induces chilling tolerance in Phalaenopsis seedlings through glutathione-related antioxidant system. Sci. Hortic. 289, 110421. doi: 10.1016/j.scienta.2021.110421

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Choresca, R. G. C., Secretaria, L. B., Bayogan, E. R. V. (2019). Vase life of cut torch ginger (Etlingera elatior) inflorescences as influenced by stem length. Mindanao J. Sci. Technol. 17, 112–125.

Google Scholar

Chuengpanya, R., Chuenboonngarm, N., Thammasiri, K., Jenjittikul, T., Soonthornchainaksaeng, P., Muangkroot, A. (2016). Investigation of colchicine incubation time on the regeneration rate of globba williamsiana var. 'Dok khao'. Acta Hortic. 1167, 149–156. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2017.1167.23

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Chutichudet, P., Chutichudet, B., Boontiang, K. (2011). Effect of 1-MCP on vase life and other postharvest qualities of patumma (Curcuma alismatifolia) cv. ‘Chiang mai pink’. Trends Hortic. Res. 1 (1), 1–11. doi: 10.3923/thr.2011.1.11

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

COLEACP (Europe-Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Liaison Committee). (2002). Available at: https://www.devex.com/organizations/europe-africa-caribbean-pacific-liaison-committee-coleacp-105089.

Google Scholar

Collins, R., Dent, B. (2022). “Value chain management and post-harvest handling,” in Postharvest handling (Academic Press, Elsevier), 319–341. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-822845-6.00010-5

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Costa, L. C., Costa, R. R., Ribeiro, W. S., Carneiro, G. G., Barbosa, J. A., Finger, F. L. (2015). Postharvest longevity of Heliconia wagneriana. Acta Hortic. 1060 (1), 193–199. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2015.1060.28

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Costa, L. C., de Araujo, F. F., Ribeiro, W. S., de Sousa Santos, M. N., Finger, F. L. (2021). Post-harvest physiology of cut flowers. Ornam. Hortic. 27, 374–385. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v27i3.2372

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Costa, A. S., Nogueira, L. C., Santos, V. F. D., Camara, T. R., Loges, V., Willadino, L. (2011). Storage of cut Heliconia bihai (L.) cv. ‘Lobster claw’ flowers at low temperatures. Rev. Bras. Eng. 15, 966–972. doi: 10.1590/S1415-43662011000900013

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Costa, L. C. D., Araujo, F. F. D., Lima, P. C. C., Pereira, A. M., Finger, F. L. (2016). Action of abscisic and gibberellic acids on senescence of cut gladiolus flowers. Bragantia 75, 377–385. doi: 10.1590/1678-4499.361

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (1984). Yield and production of red ginger and bird-of-paradise at waimanalo as influenced by fertilizer, planting density and season. proc. 2nd fertilizer and ornamentals short course (County of Hawai’i: University of Hawai’i at Mänoa, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources), 129–138. Available at: file:///C:/Users/user/Downloads/106-Texto%20do%20Artigo-13634-11674-10-20201026.pdf.

Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (1988). Development of Heliconia and Alpinia in Hawaii: cultivar selection and culture. Acta Horti 246, 247–258. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1989.246.30

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (1995). Culture profile. Bul. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 8, 9–11.

Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (1996). Techniques of cultivation in the ornamental zingiberaceae. Bul. Heliconia Soc. Intl 8, 7–11. doi: 10.14295/rbho.v1i1.106

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (2005). “Strelitzia. acta horti,” in Floriculture: principles and species. Eds. Dole, J. M., Wilkins, H. F. (Upper Saddle River, NJ, USA: Pearson-Prentice Hall), 868–873. Available at: https://reeis.usda.gov/web/crisprojectpages/0073302-flowering-control-of-tropical-ornamentals.html.

Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (2011). Response of Etlingeracorneri and Zingiber spectabile to photoperiod. Bull. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 17 (3), 1–3.

Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (2013). Blueprint programming for year-around forcing of Curcuma alismatifolia. Acta Hortic. 1000, 209–216. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2013.1000.27

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A. (2014). Alpinia to Zingiber–zingiberales in commercial floriculture. Acta Horti. 1104, 435–454. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2015.1104.64

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A., Broschat, T. K. (1992). Heliconia: botany and horticulturae of new floral crop. Hortic. Review 14, 1–55. 1992 https://books.google.co.in/books?hl=en&lr=&id=tz_P3RS8bcC&oi=fnd&pg=PA1&dq=Criley,+R.A.,+Broschat,+T.K.+(1992).Heliconia:+botany+and+horticulturae+of+new+floral+crop.+Hortic.Review.14:+1%E2%80%9355.&ots=CExYRRxgU4&sig=ymx5JAXHFaKU_nRDvYzcnmExCPE&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false.

Google Scholar

Criley, R. A., Lekawatana, S. (1994). Year around production with high yields may be a possibility for Heliconia chartacea. Acta Horti 397, 95–102. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1995.397.7

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A., Maciel, N. (2002). Seasonal flower production among zingiberales – some examples from a commercial cut flower grower in Hawaii. Bull. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 10, 10–13.

Google Scholar

Criley, R. A., Paull, R. E. (1993). Review: postharvest handling of bold tropical cut flowers: Anthurium, alpinia purpurata, heliconia, and Strelitzia. Acta Hortic. 377, 201–211. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1993.337.26

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A., Sakai, W. S., Lekawatana, S., Kwon, E. (1999). Photoperiodism is the genus heliconia and its effect upon seasonal flowering. Acta Hortic. 486, 323–327. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1999.486.48

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Criley, R. A., Uchida, J. Y., Fu, Z. F. (2003). Productivity and periodicity of flowering in Heliconia orthotricha cultivars. Acta Hortic. 624, 207–212. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2003.624.27

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Cronquist, A. (1978). The zingiberidae, a new subclass of liliopsida (Monocotyledons). Brittonia 30, 505. doi: 10.2307/2806360

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Cunha Neto, A. R., Paiva, P. D. O., Ponce, M. M., Calvelli, J. V. B., Barbosa, S. (2023). Meta-analysis of new technologies in post-harvest of tropical flowers. Ornam Hortic. 29 (2), 224–237. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v29i2.2643

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Cuquel, F. L., Polack, S. W. (2010). Shelf-life of Anthurium cut flowers: evaluation criteria. Acta Hortic. 934, 435–440. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2012.934.57

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

da Silva Vieira, M. R., do Nascimento Somoes, A., de Souza, P. A. (2014). Recommended temperature and relative humidity for storage of brazilian tropical flowers. Afr. J. Biotechnol. 13 (11), 1198–1201. doi: 10.5897/AJBX2013.13427

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Darras, A. I. (2020). The chilling injury effect in cut flowers: a brief review. J. Hortic. Sci. Biotechnol. 95 (1), 1–7. doi: 10.1080/14620316.2019.1629340

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Darras, A. (2021). Overview of the dynamic role of specialty cut flowers in the international cut flower market. Horticulturae 7 (3), 51. doi: 10.3390/horticulturae7030051

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

De, L. C. (2020). Post-harvest management of orchid spikes and florets. Int. J. Curr. Microbiol. Appl. Sci. 9 (9), 2624–2638. doi: 10.20546/ijcmas.2020.909.328

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

De, L. C., Vij, S. P., Medhi, R. P. (2014). Post-harvest physiology and technology in orchids. J. Hortic. 1 (1), 1–9. doi: 10.4172/horticulture.1000102

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

de Araujo, M. E. V., Barbosa, E. G., de Araújo, R. S. L., Teixeira, I. R., Gomes, F. A., Corrêa, P. C. (2019). Physiological and sanitary quality of castor oil plant seeds due to ultraviolet-c radiation. Ind. Crops Prod. 137, 9–15. doi: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2019.05.014

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

de Moraes, P. J., Finger, F. L., Barbosa, J. G., Cecon, P. R., Cesa, L. P. (2005). Influence of benzyladenine on longevity of heliconia latispatha benth. Acta Hortic. 683, 369–374. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.683.47

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

de Paula, J. C. B., Rosalem, I. B., Júnior, W. A. R., Shimizu, G. D., de Faria, R. T., de Andrade Pacheco, C., et al. (2021). Post-harvesting longevity of bird of paradise (Strelitzia spp.) treated with carnauba wax. Comun. Sci. 12, 3421–3421. doi: 10.14295/cs.v12.3421

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Deng, Y., Li, C., Li, H., Lu, S. (2018). Identification and characterization of flavonoid biosynthetic enzyme genes in Salvia miltiorrhiza (Lamiaceae). Molecules 23 (6), 1467. doi: 10.3390/molecules23061467

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ding, Y., Shi, Y., Yang, S. (2020). Molecular regulation of plant responses to environmental temperatures. Mol. Plant 13 (4), 544–564. doi: 10.1016/j.molp.2020.02.004

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Dolan, C., Sutherland, K. (2002). Gender and employment in the Kenya horticulture value chain. Globalisation Poverty Discussion Paper 8, 1–43. Available at: https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=774c920fc0ba94395a2887eac4b477e3d2fca2a8.

Google Scholar

Dolselman, H., Broschat, T. K. (1986). Production of Heliconia psittacorum for cut flower in south Florida. Heliconia Soc. Intern. 1 (4), 4–6.

Google Scholar

Elatafi, E., Fang, J. (2022). Effect of silver nitrate (AgNO₃) and nano-silver (Ag-NPs) on physiological characteristics of grapes and quality during storage period. Horticulturae 8 (5), 419. doi: 10.3390/horticulturae8050419

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

El-Baky, N. A., Amara, A. A. A. F. (2021). Recent approaches towards control of fungal diseases in plants: an updated review. J. Fungi (Basel). 7 (11), 900. doi: 10.3390/jof7110900

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Erkan, M., Pekmezci, M., Wang, C. Y. (2005). Hot water and curing treatments reduce chilling injury and maintain post-harvest quality of ‘Valencia’ oranges. Int. J. Food Sci. 40 (1), 91–96. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2621.2004.00912.x

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Etemadipoor, R., Dastjerdi, A. M., Ramezanian, A., Ehteshami, S. (2020). Ameliorative effect of gum arabic, oleic acid and/or cinnamon essential oil on chilling injury and quality loss of guava fruit. Sci. Hortic. 266, 109255. doi: 10.1016/j.scienta.2020.109255

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Etemadipoor, R., Ramezanian, A., Dastjerdi, A. M., Shamili, M. (2019). The potential of gum arabic enriched with cinnamon essential oil for improving the qualitative characteristics and storability of guava (Psidium guajava l.) fruit. Sci. Hortic. 251, 101–107. doi: 10.1016/j.scienta.2019.03.021

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Fang, H., Wang, C., Wang, S., Liao, W. (2021). Hydrogen gas increases the vase life of cut rose ‘Movie star’ by regulating bacterial community in the stem ends. Postharvest Bio.Technol. 181, 111685. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2021.111685

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Fanourakis, D., Pieruschka, R., Savvides, A., Macnish, A. J., Sarlikioti, V., Woltering, E. J. (2013). Sources of vase life variation in cut roses: a review. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 78, 1–15. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2012.12.001

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Farrell, A. D., Evelyn, S., Lennon, A. M., Umaharan, P. (2012). Genotypic variation in senescence and water relations in cut flowers of Anthurium andraeanum (Hort.). HortSci 47 (9), 1333–1337. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.47.9.1333

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Favero, B. T., Lima, G. P. P., Dole, J. (2017). Curcuma alismatifolia vase life. Ornam. Hortic. 23 (1), 101–106. doi: 10.14295/oh.v23i1.989

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Feng, Q. L., Wu, J., Chen, G. Q., Cui, F., Kim, T., Kim, J. A. (2000). Mechanistic study of the antibacterial effect of silver ions on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. J. Biomed. Mater. Res. 52, 662–668. doi: 10.1002/1097-4636(20001215)52:4%3C662::AID-JBM10%3E3.0.CO;2-3

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Fernandes, L., Casal, S., Pereira, J. A., Saraiva, J. A., Ramalhosa, E. (2020). An overview on the market of edible flowers. Food Rev. Int. 36 (3), 258–275. doi: 10.1080/87559129.2019.1639727

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ferreira, S., Pitz, K., Alvarez, A. (1991). Heliconia wilt in Hawaii. Phytopathology 81, 1159.

Google Scholar

Foldbjerg, R., Olesen, P., Hougaard, M., Dang, D. A., Hoffmann, H. J., Autrup, H. (2009). PVP-coated silver nanoparticles and silver ions induce reactive oxygen species, apoptosis and necrosis in THP-1 monocytes. Toxicol. Lett. 190, 156–162. doi: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.07.009

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Folha, W. R., Souza, R. R., Amaral, G. C., Silva, A. A., Carvalho, J. N., Cavalcante, M. Z. B. (2016). Heliconia ‘Golden torch’ postharvest: stem ends cutting and renewing vase water benefits. Ornam. Hortic. 22 (2), 180–185. doi: 10.14295/oh.v22i2.908

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Forato, L. A., de Britto, D., de Rizzo, J. S., Gastaldi, T. A., Assis, O. B. G. (2015). Effect of cashew gum-carboxymethylcellulose edible coatings in extending the shelf-life of fresh and cut guavas. Food Packag. Shelf Life. 5, 68–74. doi: 10.1016/j.fpsl.2015.06.001

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Gabellini, S., Scaramuzzi, S. (2022). Evolving consumption trends, marketing strategies, and governance settings in ornamental horticulture: a grey literature review. Horticulturae 8 (3), 234. doi: 10.3390/horticulturae8030234

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Geertsen, V. (1990). Influence of photoperiod and temperature on the growth and flowering of Heliconia aurantiaca. Hortic. Sci. 25 (6), 646–648. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.25.6.646

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Giovannini, A., Laura, M., Nesi, B., Savona, M., Cardi, T. (2021). Genes and genome editing tools for breeding desirable phenotypes in ornamentals. Plant Cell Rep. 40, 461–478. doi: 10.1007/s00299-020-02632-x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Golding, J. (2019). A review of chilling injury causes and control. Available at: https://citrusaustralia.com.au/latest-news/2019/08/a-review-of-chilling-injury-causes-and-control/.

Google Scholar

Gonçalves, C., Colombo, C. A., Castro, C. E. F. (2014). Divergência genética de etlingera elatior baseada em características agromorfológicas para flores de corte. Ornam. Hortic. 20 (1), 93–102. doi: 10.14295/rbho.v20i1.569

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

González, M. T., Mogollón, Y. N. J. (2001). Fertilización nitrogen ad asobreelcrecimiento y desarrollo de la inflorescenciaenplantas de Alpinia purpurata (Vieill.) k. schum. ‘Jungle king’ provenientes de cultivo in vitro y de sección de rizoma. Rev. Fac. Agron. (LUZ). 18, 124–134. Available at: https://www.revfacagronluz.org.ve/PDF/abril_junio2001/ra2014.pdf

Google Scholar

González-Reza, R. M., García-Betanzos, C. I., Sánchez-Valdes, L. I., Quintanar-Guerrero, D., Cornejo-Villegas, M. A., ZambranoZaragoza, M. L. (2018). The functionalization of nanostructures and their potential applications in edible coatings. Coatings 8, 160. doi: 10.3390/coatings8050160

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Guo, W. L., Chen, R. G., Gong, Z. H., Yin, Y. X., Ahmed, S. S., He, Y. M. (2012). Exogenous abscisic acid increases antioxidant enzymes and related gene expression in pepper (Capsicum annuum) leaves subjected to chilling stress. Genet. Mol. Res. 11 (4), 4063–4080. doi: 10.4238/2012.September.10.5

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Gupta, J., Dubey, R. K. (2018). Factors affecting post-harvest life of flower crops. IJCMAS 7 (1), 548–557. doi: 10.20546/ijcmas.2018.701.065

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Gupta, R. M., Musunuru, K. (2014). Expanding the genetic editing tool kit: ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR-Cas9. J. Clin. Investig. 124 (10), 4154–4161. doi: 10.1172/JCI72992

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hagiladi, A., Gilad, Z., Yang, X., Umiel, N. (1997). Curcuma alismatifolia: I the number of tuberous root tips per propagule affects the time of flowering and the yield of inflorescences. Acta Hortic. 430, 747–753. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1997.430.119

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hahne, G., Tomlinson, L., Nogué, F. (2019). Precision genetic engineering tools for next-generation plant breeding. Plant Cell Rep. 38, 435–436. doi: 10.1007/s00299-019-02400-6

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Halder, M., Sarkar, S., Jha, S. (2019). Elicitation: a biotechnological tool for enhanced production of secondary metabolites in hairy root cultures. Eng. Life Sci. 19 (12), 880–895. doi: 10.1002/elsc.201900058

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Halevy, A. H., Kofranek, A. M., Kubota, J. (1976). Effect of environmental conditions on flowering of Strelitzia reginae, ait. Hortic. Sci. 11, 584. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.11.6.584

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Halevy, A. H., Mayak, S. (1981). Senescence and post-harvest physiology of cut flowers. Hortic. Rev. 3, 59–143. doi: 10.1002/9781118060766.ch3

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hamim, I., Green, J. C., Borth, W. B., Melzer, M. J., Wang, Y. N., Hu, J. S. (2017). First report of banana bunchy top virus in heliconia spp. on Hawaii. Plant Dis. 101 (12), 2153. doi: 10.1094/PDIS-02-17-0205-PDN

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hara, A. H., Hata, T. Y., Hu, B. S., Tsang, M. M. C. (1997). Hot air induced thermo tolerance of red ginger flowers and mealy bugs to post-harvest hot water immersion. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 12, 101–108. doi: 10.1016/S0925-5214(97)00042-2

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hara, A. H., Tsang, M., Jacobsen, C. M., Yogi-Chun, J. A., Hata, T. Y., Niino-DuPonte, R. Y. (2004). Pest management strategies for anthuriums. Insects pests 17, 1–23. Available at: https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/4bc6b078-9eb8-4095-89fe-0eda54c43ebb/content.

Google Scholar

Hatsugai, N., Katagiri, F. (2018). Quantification of plant cell death by electrolyte leakage assay. Bio-protocol 8 (5), 2758–2758. doi: 10.21769/BioProtoc.2758

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hawaii Department of Agriculture. (1972). Standards for hawaii-grown flowers and foliage. in: Standards for grades of flowers and foliage (Honolulu: . Hawaii Dept. of Agriculture). Available at: https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/AR-42.pdf.

Google Scholar

Hayden, D. H. (2003). Characterization of senescence regulated gene expression in anthurium (Doctoral dissertation) (USA: University of Hawaii Library). Available at: https://www.proquest.com/openview/c70a861a951906311dcb22321e128e9b/1?pqorigsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y.

Google Scholar

Heliconia Society International (HSI). (1989). Warning: on air freight shipments of heliconia rhizomes. Bull. Heliocnia Soc. Intl. 4 (1-3), 4–6.

Google Scholar

Hemming, J., Pekkeriet, E. J., van der Schoor, R. (2010). Automatic grading of anthurium cut flowers using 3D computer vision. CIGR XVIIth world Cong. Available at: https://library.csbe-scgab.ca/docs/meetings/2010/CSBE100934.pdf.

Google Scholar

Hew, C. S., Yip, K. C. (1987). Respiratory metabolism in isolated orchid petal cells. New Phytol. 105 (4), 605–612. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.1987.tb00898.x

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Higaki, T., Imamura, J. S., Paull, R. E. (1992). N, p, and K rates and leaf tissue standards for optimum Anthurium andraeanum flower production. Hort Sci. 27 (8), 909–912. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.27.8.909

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hintze, J. (2013). The Etlingera cultivar registry. Bull. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 19 (4), 3–4. Available at: https://bbe7dfdf-9931-424b-9632-6843045914e3.filesusr.com/ugd/ef1aa2_32f6722bf655448ba33385a1748d2f30.pdf

Google Scholar

Hintze, J. (2014). New Etlingera cultivar registrations. Bull. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 20, 11. Available at: https://bbe7dfdf-9931-424b-9632-6843045914e3.filesusr.com/ugd/ef1aa2_32f6722bf655448ba33385a1748d2f30.pdf

Google Scholar

Holley, W. D. (1960). Plant injury from flue gases. Col. Flow. Grow. Assn. Bui. 120, 1–2.

Google Scholar

Hui, H., Yongjin, Q., Hongru, L., Chenxia, L., Chunfang, W., Yaoguang, Z. (2023). Research progress on the mechanism of chilling injury and alleviating measures in peach fruit. J. Sci. Technol. Food Indus. 44 (4), 496–505. doi: 10.13386/j.issn1002-0306.2022050016

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hutchinson, M. J., Onamu, R., Obukosia, S. (2004). Effect of thidiazuron, benzylaminopurine and naphthalene acetic acid on in vitro propagation of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa l.) from shoot tip explants. J. Agric. Sci. Technol. 6 (1), 48–59. doi: 10.4314/jagst.v6i1.31705

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). (2019). Sustainability. the growing global population places increasing demands on our natural resources. Available at: https://aiph.org/ornamentals-production/sustainability/.

Google Scholar

Islam, M. S., Mehraj, H., Roni, M. Z. K., Mahasen, M., Jamal Uddin, A. F. M. (2013). Influence of sucrose and ascorbic acid on vase life of red ginger (Alpinia purpurataVieill.). Bangladesh Res. Publ. J. 8 (1), 104–106.

Google Scholar

Ismail, N. A., Rafii, M. Y., Mahmud, T. M., Hanafi, H. M., Miah, G. (2019). Genetic diversity of torch ginger (Etlingera elatior) germplasm revealed by ISSR and SSR mark. Hindawi Biomed. Res. Int. 4 (1), 1–16. doi: 10.1155/2019/5904804

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Janowska, B., Andrzejak, R. (2022). The role of cytokinins and gibberellins on post-harvest longevity of florists’ greens. Agriculture 12, 1375. doi: 10.3390/agriculture12091375

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Janowska, B., Andrzejak, R. (2023). Plant growth regulators for the cultivation and vase life of geophyte flowers and leaves. Agriculture 13 (4), 855. doi: 10.3390/agriculture13040855

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Janowska, B., Nowińska, M., Andrzejak, R. (2022). The vase life of the leaves of selected perennial species after the application of growth regulators. Agronomy 12 (4), 805. doi: 10.3390/agronomy12040805

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

>Jaroenkit, T., Paull, R. E. (2003). Postharvest handling of heliconia, red ginger, and bird-of-paradise. Hortic. Technol. 13 (2), 259–266. doi: 10.21273/horttech.13.2.0259

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Jedrzejuk, A., Rochala, J., Zakrzewski, J., Rabiza-Świder, J. (2012). Identification of xylem occlusions occurring in cut clematis (Clematis l., fam. ranunculaceae juss.) stems during their vase life. Sci. World J. 2012, 12. doi: 10.1100/2012/749281

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Jiang, H., Manolache, S., Wong, A. C. L., Denes, F. S. (2004). Plasma-enhanced deposition of silver nanoparticles onto polymer and metal surfaces for the generation of antimicrobial characteristics. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 93, 1411–1422. doi: 10.1002/app.20561

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Jiao, C., Lan, G., Sun, Y. (2021). Dopamine alleviates chilling stress in watermelon seedlings via modulation of proline content, antioxidant enzyme activity, and polyamine metabolism. J. Plant Growth Regul. 40, 277–292. doi: 10.1007/s00344-020-10096-2

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kagale, S., Divi, U. K., Krochko, J. E., Keller, W. A., Krishna, P. (2007). Brassinosteroid confers tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana and Brassica napus to a range of abiotic stresses. Planta 225, 353–364. doi: 10.1007/s00425-006-0361-6

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ka-ipo, R., Sakai, W. S., Furutani, S. C., Collins, M. (1989). Effect of postharvest treatment with antitranspirants on the shelf-life of Heliconia psittacorum cv. ‘Parakeet’ cut flowers. Bull. Heliconia Soc. Intl. 4, 13–14.

Google Scholar

Kaishita, N. (2022). “Global floral trends and the strategy of Japan,” in Agricultural technology system, flower edition, vol. 14. (Japan: Rural Culture Association), 1–19. Available at: https://agfstorage.blob.core.windows.net/misc/FD_com/2022/09/20/Global_floral_market_trends_and_the_strategy_of_Japan_May_2022.pdf.

Google Scholar

Kamemoto, H. (1962). Some factors affecting the keeping quality of Anthurium flowers. Hawaii Farm Sci. 11 (4), 2–4.

Google Scholar

Kasamo, K., Yamaguchi, M., Nakamura, Y. (2000). Mechanism of the chilling-induced decrease in proton pumping across the tonoplast of rice cells. PCP 41 (7), 840–849. doi: 10.1093/pcp/pcd002

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Khan, F. N., Yasmin, L., Nasrin, T. A. A., Hossain, M. J., Golder, P. C. (2009). Effect of sucrose and pH on the vase life of gladiolus flower. SAARC J. Agric. 7 (1), 11–18. Available at: http://www.sac.org.bd/archives/journals/sja_v_7_i_1_2009.pdf#page=14.

Google Scholar

Kim, H., Kim, J. S. (2014). A guide to genome engineering with programmable nucleases. Nat. Rev. Genet. 15, 321–334. doi: 10.1038/nrg3686

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kim, Y. M., Kim, S., Koo, N., Shin, A. Y., Yeom, S. I., Seo, E., et al. (2017). Genome analysis of Hibiscus syriacus provides insights of polyploidization and indeterminate flowering in woody plants. DNA Res. 24, 71–80. doi: 10.1093/dnares/dsw049

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kirst, G. O., Bisson, M. A. (1979). Regulation of turgor pressure in marine algae: ions and low-molecular-weight organic compounds. Funct. Plant Biol. 6 (4), 539–556. doi: 10.1071/PP9790539

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kjonboon, T., Kanlayanarat, S. (2004). Effects of gibberellic acid on the vase life of cut patumma (Curcuma alismatifolia gagnep.) 'Chaing mai'flowers. Acta Hortic. 673, 525–529. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.673.70

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kobayashi, K., McEwen, J., Kaufman, J. (2007). Ornamental ginger, red and pink (Honolulu, Hawai‘i: University of Hawai‘i at Mänoa). Available at: https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/dc54e6ee-8199-404d-9f5f-2229c2073252/content.

Google Scholar

Koley, T. (2013). Studies on postharvest handling of bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae ait.). Available at: https://www.academia.edu/51014328/Studies_on_postharvest_handling_of_Bird_of_Paradise_Strelitzia_reginae_Ait.

Google Scholar

Kosugi, Y., Waki, K., Iwazaki, Y., Tsuruno, N., Mochizuki, A., Yoshioka, T., et al. (2002). Senescence and gene expression of transgenic non-ethylene-producing carnation flowers. J. Jpn. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 71 (5), 638–642. doi: 10.2503/jjshs.71.638

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Krause, S., Krause, w., Santos, E. A., Rossi, A. A., Cordeiro, M. H. M., Silva, C. A. (2023). Morphological and molecular characterization of native heliconia sp. accessions of the Amazon region. Ornam Hortic. 29, (2). doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v29i2.2578

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kreissig, K. (2019). “Red flowers,” in Identify common tropical and subtropical ornamental plants by flower colour (Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer Spektrum). doi: 10.1007/978-3-662-58817-8_3

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kress, W. J. (1984). Systematics of central American heliconia (Heliconiaceae) with pendent inflorescences. J. Arnold Arbor. 65, 429–532. doi: 10.5962/p.36697

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kress, W. J. (1990). The phylogeny and classification of the zingiberales. Ann. Mo. Bot. Gard. 77 (4), 698–721. doi: 10.2307/2399669

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Kumar, M., Singh, V. P., Arora, A., Singh, N. (2014). The role of abscisic acid (ABA) in ethylene insensitive gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflora hort.) flower senescence. Acta Physiol. Plant 36, 151–159. doi: 10.1007/s11738-013-1395-6

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Laws, N. (1998). Tropical flowers from grower to market. Flora Culture Intl, 16–22.

Google Scholar

Laws, N. (2005). A strong year for floriculture. Flora Culture Intl. 2, 26–29.

Google Scholar

Leite, K. P., Costa, A. S., Pinheiro, P. G. L., Gomes, R. J., Loges, V. (2015). Postharvest of cut flower Heliconia stricta var. 'bucky' stored under different conditions. Acta Hortic. 1060, 235–241. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2015.1060.35

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Lekawatana, S., Pituck, O. (1998). New floricultural crops in Thailand. Acta Hortic. 454, 59–64. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1998.454.5

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Leonhardt, K. W., Woomer, P. (1991). Spathe bleaching of anthurium andraeanum linden (USA: Research extension series-College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii, Cooperative Extension Service).

Google Scholar

Li, L., Liu, Y., Wang, S., Zou, J., Ding, W., Shen, W. (2020). Magnesium hydride-mediated sustainable hydrogen supply prolongs the vase life of cut carnation flowers via hydrogen sulfide. Front. Plant Sci. 11. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2020.595376

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Liju, A. (2013). Flowering and post harvest dynamics of heliconias(Heliconia spp) (Vellanikkara: Department of Pomology and Floriculture, College of Horticulture). Available at: http://14.139.185.57:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/311.

Google Scholar

Linares-Gabriel, A., Gallardo-López, F., Villarreal, M., Landeros-Sánchez, C., López-Romero, G. (2020). Global vision of heliconiasresearch as cut flower: a review. Ornam. Hortic. 26, 633–646. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v26i3.2172

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Liu, J., Li, Q., Chen, J., Jiang, Y. (2020). Revealing further insights on chilling injury of postharvest bananas by untargeted lipidomics. Foods 9 (7), 894. doi: 10.3390/foods9070894

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Loges, V., de Castro, C. E. F., de Castro, A. C. R., Gonçalves, C. (2016). Characteristics of pendent heliconia for use in landscape and as cut flower. Ornam. Hortic. 22 (3), 287–295. doi: 10.14295/oh.v22i3.942

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Loges, V., de Castro, A. C. R., Martins, L. S. S., Willadino, L., Teixeira, M. C. F., Lira Junior, M. A., et al. (2005). Floriculture research in pernambuco - Brazil. Acta Hortic. 683, 345–350. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.683.43

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Loges, V., da Costa, A. S., Guimarães, W. N. R., Teixeira, , M. D. C. F. (2008). Potencial de mercado de bastão-do-impera. Ornam. Hortic. 14 (1), 15–22. doi: 10.14295/rbho.v14i1.225

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Lukatkin, A. S., Brazaityte, A., Bobinas, C., Duchovskis, P. (2012). Chilling injury in chilling-sensitive plants: a review. Agric 99 (2), 111–124. Available at: http://zemdirbyste-agriculture.lt/99(2)tomas/99_2_tomas_str1.pdf.

Google Scholar

Maciel, N. (2000). Flowering in heliconia rostrata ruiz &Pavon (Doctoral dissertation). Available at: https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/e4c67d05-a7c8-40eb-87db-8dd4644ea21a/content.

Google Scholar

Macnish, A. J., Reid, M. S., Marrero, A., Jiang, C. Z. (2009). Improving the postharvest performance of bird-of-paradise flowers. Acta Hortic. 877, 1763–1769. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2010.877.242

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Malakar, M., Acharyya, P., Biswas, S. (2016). Evaluation of Heliconia species based on agro- morphological traits. Intl. J. Ag. Env. Biotech. 8, 957–964. doi: 10.5958/2230-732X.2015.00109.6

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Malakar, M., Acharyya, P., Biswas, S. (2019). Consequences of divergent vase solutions on post-harvest durability and quality of Heliconia inflorescences. Acta Hortic. 1256, 77–94. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2019.1256.12

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Malakar, M., Beruto, M., Barba-Gonzalez, R. (2022). Biotechnological approaches to overcome hybridization barriers and use of micropropagation tool for further improvement in Heliconia: a review. PCTOC 149 (3), 503–522. doi: 10.1007/s11240-022-02300-w

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mamede, A. M. G. N., Barboza, H. T. G., Saores, A. G., Neves, A. C. V. J., de Oliveira, F. M. J. (2016). “Postharvest physiology and technology for fresh guavas,” in Tropical fruits. Eds. Dimitrov, T. S., Stewart, G. C. (New York, NY, USA: Nova Science Publishers, Inc), 91–108.

Google Scholar

Mangaraj, S., Goswami, T. K., Giri, S. K., Joshy, C. G. (2014). Design and development of modified atmosphere packaging system for guava (cv. baruipur). J. Food Sci. Technol. 51, 2925–2946. doi: 10.1007/s13197-012-0860-3

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mangave, B. D., Singh, A., Mahatma, M. K. (2013). Effects of different plant growth regulators and chemicals spray on post harvest physiology and vase life of heliconia inflorescence cv. ‘Golden torch’. Plant Growth Regul. 69 (3), 259–264. doi: 10.1007/s10725-012-9768-1

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Markhart, A. H. (1986). Chilling injury: a review of possible causes. Hort Sci. 21 (6), 1329–1333. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.21.6.1329

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Marsetyowati, T. (2014). Teknik pengemasan dalam transportasi untuk mempertahankan mutu bunga potong alpinia (Alpinia purpurata). Widyariset 17 (2), 205–211. doi: 10.14203/widyariset.17.2.2014.205-211

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Marton, I., Zuker, A., Shklarman, E., Zeevi, V., Tovkach, A., Roffe, S. (2010). Non-transgenic genome modification in plant cells. Plant Physiol. 154, 1079–1087. doi: 10.1104/pp.110.164806

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mattos, D. G., Paiva, P. D. O., Elias, H. H. S., Vilas Boas, E. V. D. B., Rodrigues, L. F., Lago, R. C. D. (2018). Starch and total soluble sugar content in torch ginger post-harvest. Ornam Hortic. 24, 435–442. doi: 10.14295/oh.v24i4.1205

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mattos, D. G., Paiva, P. D. O., Nery, F. C., Vale, R. P., Sarto, M. T., Luz, I. C. A. (2017). Water relations in post-harvest-ed torch ginger affected by harvest point and carnauba wax. Postharvest Biol. Tech 127, 35–43. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2016.12.007

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mattson, R. H., Widmer, R. E. (1971). Effects of carbon dioxide during growth on vase life of greenhouse roses (Rosa hybrida). J. Amer. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 96, 284. doi: 10.21273/JASHS.96.3.284

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mills, H. (1981). Presented to anthurium industry group. Hilo Hawaii 4, 41.

Google Scholar

Minorsky, P. V. (1985). A heuristic hypothesis of chilling injury in plants: a role for calcium as the primary physiological transducer of injury. Plant Cell Environ. 8, 75–94. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-3040.1985.tb01226.x

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mirdehghan, S. H., Rahemi, M. (2004). Effects of hot water treatment on reducing chilling injury of pomegranate (Punica granatum) fruit during storage. Acta Hortic. 682, 887–892. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.682.115

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Morais, M. B., Silva, M. M. A., Herculano, L., Camara, T. R., Willadino, L. (2012). Postharvest senescence of alpinia floral stems: antioxidative effect of pulsing. Acta Horti 1060, 289–294. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2015.1060.43

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Murmu, S. B., Mishra, H. N. (2018a). The effect of edible coating based on Arabic gum, sodium caseinate and essential oil of cinnamon and lemon grass on guava. Food Chem. 245, 820–828. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.11.104

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Murmu, S. B., Mishra, H. N. (2018b). Post-harvest shelf-life of banana and guava: mechanisms of common degradation problems and emerging counteracting strategies. Innov. Food Sci. Emerg. Technol. 49, 20–30. doi: 10.1016/j.ifset.2018.07.011

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Musembi, N. N., Hutchinson, M. J., Waithaka, K. (2013). The effects of 6-benzylaminopurine and gibberellic acid on postharvest physiology of lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) flowers: i. novel synergism improves water balance and vase life. Acta Hortic. 1077, 47–56. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2015.1077.4

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Navarro, J. M., Garrido, C., Martínez, V. (2003). Water relations and xylem transport of nutrients in pepper plants grown under two different salts stress regimes. Plant Growth Regul. 41, 237–245. doi: 10.1023/B:GROW.0000007515.72795.c5

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Nayyar, H., Chander, K., Kumar, S., Bains, T. (2005). Glycine betaine mitigates cold stress damage in chickpea. ASD 25 (3), 381–388. doi: 10.1051/agro:2005033

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ng, H. F., Hsieh, K. W., Lin, H. S., Chen, H. W. Anthurium cut flower grading with machine vision. Available at: http://dns2.asia.edu.tw/~pang/Paper/FlowerInspec_cvgip2007.pdf.

Google Scholar

Nguyen, T. K., Lim, J. H. (2022). Is it a challenge to use molecular hydrogen for extending flower vase life? Plants 11, 1277. doi: 10.3390/plants11101277

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Nowak, J., Rudnicki, R. M. (1990). Post-harvest handling and storage of cut flowers (Portland, Ore: Florist greens and potted plant. Timber Press).

Google Scholar

Nzomoi, J., Mutua, J., Kiprop, H., Kathambi, A. (2022). An economic analysis of kenya’s horticulture export performance 2010–2021. Intl. J. Eco. 7 (1), 63–75. doi: 10.47604/ijecon.1659

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Olmedo, P., Zepeda, B., Delgado-Rioseco, J., Leiva, C., Moreno, A. A., Sagredo, K., et al. (2023). Metabolite profiling reveals the effect of cold storage on primary metabolism in nectarine varieties with contrasting mealiness. Plants 12 (4), 766. doi: 10.3390/plants12040766

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Onozaki, T., Ikeda, H., Yamaguchi, T. (2001). Genetic improvement of vase life of carnation flowers by crossing and selection. Sci. Hortic. 87, 107–120. doi: 10.1016/S0304-4238(00)00167-9

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Paiva, P. D. O., Beckmann-Cavalcante, M. Z. (2023). What does tropical and subtropical plant mean? Ornam Hortic. 29 (2), 122–123. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v29i2.2656

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Parkin, K. L., Marangoni, A., Jackman, R. L., Yada, R. Y., Stanley, D. W. (1989). Chilling injury. a review of possible mechanisms. J. Food Biochem. 13 (2), 127–153. doi: 10.1111/j.1745-4514.1989.tb00389.x

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Paull, R. F. (1987). Effect of storage duration and temperature on cut anthurium flowers. Hortic. Sci. 3 (22), 459–460. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.22.3.459

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Paull, R. E. (1990). Postharvest heat treatments and fruit ripening. Postharvest News Inf. 1 (5), 355–363. doi: 10.1079/cabireviews/19900300101

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Paull, R. E. (1991). “Postharvest handling of Hawaii cut flowers for export,” in The Hawaii tropical cut flower industry. (Hawaii: County of Hawaii), 24.

Google Scholar

Paull, R. E., Chantrachit, T. (2001). Benzyladenine and the vase life of tropical ornamentals. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 21 (3), 303–310. doi: 10.1016/S0925-5214(00)00153-8

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Paz, M. P., Kuehny, J. S., McClure, G., Graham, C., Criley, R. A. (2005). Effect of rhizome storage duration and temperature on carbohydrate content, respiration, growth, and flowering of ornamental ginger. Acta Hortic. 673, 737–744. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.673.104

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Pizano, M. (2005). International market trends-tropical flowers. Acta Hortic. 683, 79–86. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.683.6

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Pompodakis, N., Terry, L., Joyce, D., Lydakis, D., Papadimitriou, M. (2005). Effect of seasonal variation and storage temperature on leaf chlorophyll fluorescence and vase of cut roses. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 36, 1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2004.11.003

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Pourzarnegar, F., Hashemabadi, D., Kaviani, B. (2020). Cerium nitrate and salicylic acid on vase life, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzymes activity in cut lisianthus flowers. Ornam. Hortic. 26, 658–669. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v26i4.2227

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Powar, V., Bhargava, B., Vikas, G. (2014). Study on waxing of cut foliage post-harvest life of few ornamental species. J. Appl. Nat. Sci. 6 (2), 619–624. doi: 10.31018/jans.v6i2.506

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Promyou, S., Ketsa, S., van Doorn, W. G. (2012). Salicylic acid alleviates chilling injury in anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum l.) flowers. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 64 (1), 104–110. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2011.10.002

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Quinaya, D. C. P., d’Almeida, J. R. (2019). Possibility of exploring and applying wastes from some ornamental plants (Elatior etlingera; costus comosus; heliconia bihai) as sources of natural cellulosic fibers. J. Nat. Fibers. 17 (10), 1–9. doi: 10.1080/15440478.2019.1581118

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rabiza-Świder, J., Skutnik, E., Chodorska, M. (2012). The effect of growth regulators and preservative on senescence of cut oriental lily ‘Helvetia’. Acta Sci. Pol. 11 (5), 183–194. Available at: https://czasopisma.up.lublin.pl/index.php/asphc/article/view/3149/2178

Google Scholar

Reid, M. S. (2001). Advances in shipping and handling of ornamentals. Acta Hortic. 543, 277–284. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2001.543.33

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Reid, M. S. (2004). “Cut flowers and greens,” in Agricul handbook. (University of California, Davis: Society of American Florists' Care & Handling Manual), 66. Available at: https://corpora.tika.apache.org/base/docs/govdocs1/121/121033.pdf.

Google Scholar

Reid, M. S., Jiang, C. Z. (2012). Postharvest biology and technology of cut flowers and potted plants. Hortic. Rev. 40, 1–54. doi: 10.1002/9781118351871.ch1

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Reid, M. S., Kofranek, A. M. (1980). Postharvest physiology of cut flowers. ChronicaHorti 20 (2), 25–27. Available at: https://www.actahort.org/chronica/pdf/ch2002.pdf

Google Scholar

Reid, M. S., Wu, M. J. (1992). Ethylene and flower senescence. Plant Growth Regul. 11, 37–43. doi: 10.1007/BF00024431

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Reis, S. N., Reis, M. V., Nascimento, Â.M.P. (2020b). Pandemic, social isolation and the importance of people plant interaction. Ornam. Hortic. 26 (3), 399–412. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v26i3.2185

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Reis, M. V., Santana, G. S., Paiva, P. D. O., Bonifácio, F. L. B., Guimarães, P. H. S. (2020a). Perfil do produtor e varejista de flores e plantasornamentais. Ornam. Hortic. 26 (3), 367–380. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v26i3.2164

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ren, P. J., Jin, X., Liao, W. B. (2017). Effect of hydrogen-rich water on vase life and quality in cut lily and rose flowers. Hortic. Environ. Biotechnol. 58, 576–584. doi: 10.1007/s13580-017-0043-2

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rodríguez, F. M. S. (2013). Cultivo del género heliconia. Cult. Trop. 34 (1), 24–32.

Google Scholar

Rogers, M. N. (1973). An historical and critical review of postharvest physiology research on cut Flowers1. HortSci 8 (3), 189–194. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.8.3.189

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Roh, M., Lawson, R., Lee, J. S., Suh, J. K., Criley, R. A., Apavatjrut, P. (2005). Evaluation of curcuma as potted plant and cut flower. HortSci 40, 1012–1013. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.40.4.1012E

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ruamrungsri, S., Ohtake, N., Sueyoshi, K., Ohyama, T. (2006). Determination of the uptake and utilization of nitrogen in Curcuma alismatifoliaGagnep. using 15N isotope. SoilSci. Plant Nutr. 52 (2), 221–225. doi: 10.1111/j.1747-0765.2006.00027.x

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rudnicki, R. M., Nowak, J., Goszczynska, D. M. (1991). Cold storage and transportation conditions for cut flowers cuttings and potted plants. Acta Hortic. 298, 225–236. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1991.298.27

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rymen, B., Kawamura, A., Schäfer, S., Breuer, C., Iwase, A., Shibata, M. (2017). ABA suppresses root hair growth via the OBP4 transcriptional regulator. Plant Physiol. 173 (3), 1750–1762. doi: 10.1104/pp.16.01945

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Salesse-Smith, C. E., Sharwood, R. E., Busch, F. A., Stern, D. B. (2020). Increased rubisco content in maize mitigates chilling stress and speeds recovery. Plant Biotechnol. J. 18 (6), 1409–1420. doi: 10.1111/pbi.13306

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sangwanangkul, P., Saradhuldhat, P., Paull, R. E. (2008). Survey of tropical cut flower and foliage responses to irradiation. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 48 (2), 264–271. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2007.12.002

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sankat, C. K., Mujaffar, S. (1994). Water balance in cut anthurium flowers in storage and its effect on quality. Acta Hortic. 368, 723–732. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.1994.368.86

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sardinha, D. H. S., Rodrigues, A. A. C., Ribeiro, S. S. M., Diniz, N. B., Campos Neto, J. R. M., Reis, F. D. O. (2019). Phyto-stimulants influence the vase life of Heliconia psittacorum CV. ‘golden torch’. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 155, 140–148. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2019.05.001

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sarkar, A., Mandal, M., Kishore, B. G., Paramanik, B. (2022). Effect of different types of 8-HQC-based pulsing solutions on the post-harvest life of heliconia flowers. J. Crop Weed 18 (1), 64–70. doi: 10.22271/09746315.2022.v18.i1.1534

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sarmiento, M. S., Kuehny, J. S. (2003). Efficacy of paclobutrazol and gibberellin₄₊₇ on growth and flowering of three Curcuma species. HortTechnol 13, 493–496. doi: 10.21273/HORTTECH.13.3.0493

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Seman, H. H. A., Rafdi, H. H. M. (2019). Effects of salicylic acid and sucrose solution on vase life of cut Antigononleptopus inflorescences and their potential as cut flowers for flower arrangement. UMT JUR. 1 (1), 1–12. doi: 10.46754/umtjur.v1i1.54

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Senapati, A. K., Raj, D., Jain, R., Patel, N. L. (2016). Advances in packaging and storage of flowers Vol. 34 (New Delhi, India: Commercial horticulture, New India Publishing Agency), 473–488. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ashok-Senapati/publication/344348525_Advances_in_Packaging_and_Storage_of_Flowers/links/5f6ad93b299bf1b53ee9d4c5/Advances-in-Packaging-and-Storage-of-Flowers.pdf.

Google Scholar

Sharma, M., Kumar, P., Verma, V., Sharma, R., Bhargava, B., Irfan, M. (2022). Understanding plant stress memory response for abiotic stress resilience: molecular insights and prospects. Plant Physiol. Biochem. 179, 10–24. doi: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2022.03.004

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Shaul, O., Van Montagu, M., Inzé, D. (1996). Regulation of cell division in arabidopsis. CRC Crit. Rev. Plant Sci. 15 (2), 97–112. doi: 10.1080/07352689.1996.10393182

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Shaw, R. J., Rogers, M. N. (1964). Interactions between elevated carbon dioxide levels and green-house temperatures on the growth of roses, chrysanthemum, carnations, geraniums, snapdragons, and African violets. Flor. Rev. 135 (3486), 23-88; 135 (3487), 21-82; 135(3488), 73-95; 135(3489), 21-59; 135(3491), 19-37).

Google Scholar

Shi, Z., Li, S., Li, Y., Ji, H., Li, X., Wu, D. (2018). Strategy of solution-processed all-inorganic heterostructure for humidity/temperature-stable perovskite quantum dot light-emitting diodes. ACS nano 12 (2), 1462–1472. doi: 10.1021/acsnano.7b07856

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Shibuya, K., Shimizu, K., Niki, T., Ichimura, K. (2014). Identification of a NAC transcription factor, EPHEMERAL 1, that controls petal senescence in Japanese morning glory. Plant J. 79 (6), 1044–1051. doi: 10.1111/tpj.12605

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Shinde, B., Kamble, S., Jadhav, H., Mane, P., Khude, K., Kim, H., et al. (2021). ‘In water’ exploration of Alpinia zerumbet-fabricated CuO NPs in the presence of NaPTS at room temperature: green synthesis of 1, 8-dioxooctahydroxanthene derivatives. Res. Chem. Intermed. 47, 1221–1237. doi: 10.1007/s11164-020-04351-0

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Shokalu, A. O., Israel, J., Mosunmola, O., Eniola, O., Gift, E., Adebayo, A., et al. (2021). Aloe vera and STS solution on microbial population and vase life of heliconia cut flowers. Ornam. Hortic. 27, 470–475. doi: 10.1590/2447-536X.v27i4.2356

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Silva, C. G. D., Krause, S., Botini, A. F., França, R. P. A. D., Silva, C. A. (2019). Postharvest durability of heliconiaceae evaluated in a controlled environment in mato grosso state, Brazil. Ornam. Hortic. 25 (1), 80–86. doi: 10.14295/oh.v25i1.1229

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Singh, A., Kumar, J., Kumar, P. (2008). Effect of plant growth regulators and sucrose on postharvest physiology, membrane stability and vase life of cut spikes of gladiolus. Pl. Growth Regul. 55, 221–29. doi: 10.1007/s10725-008-9278-3

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Smyth, D. R. (2005). Morphogenesis of flowers–our evolving view. Plant Cell 17 (2), 330–341. doi: 10.1105/tpc.104.030353

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sogvar, O. B., Rabiei, V., Razavi, F., Gohari, G. (2020). Phenylalanine alleviates postharvest chilling injury of plum fruit by modulating antioxidant system and enhancing the accumulation of phenolic compounds. Food Technol. Biotechnol. 58 (4), 433–444. doi: 10.17113/ftb.58.04.20.6717

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Soleimanipour, A., Chegini, G. R. (2020). A vision-based hybrid approach for identification of anthurium flower cultivars. Comput. Electron. Agric. 174, 105460. doi: 10.1016/j.compag.2020.105460

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Soleimanipour, A., Chegini, G. R., Massah, J., Zarafshan, P. (2019). A novel image processing framework to detect geometrical features of horticultural crops: case study of Anthurium flowers. Sci. Hortic. 243, 414–420. doi: 10.1016/j.scienta.2018.08.053

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Song, C., Wang, K., Xiao, X., Liu, Q., Yang, M., Li, X., et al. (2022). Membrane lipid metabolism influences chilling injury during cold storage of peach fruit. Food Res. Int. 157, 111–249. doi: 10.1016/j.foodres.2022.111249

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Souza, R. R. D., Beckmann-Cavalcante, M. Z., Silva, A. A., Silva, E. M. D., Brito, L. P. D. S., Silva, A. O. (2016). Yield and quality of inflorescences of' ‘GoldenTorch' heliconia in different shaded environments. Rev. Bras. Eng. Agric. Ambient. 20, 128–132. doi: 10.1590/1807-1929/agriambi.v20n2p128-132

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Strauss, S. J., Higginbottom, K., Jüliger, S., Maharaj, L., Allen, P., Schenkein, D., et al. (2007). The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib acts independently of p53 and induces cell death via apoptosis and mitotic catastrophe in b-cell lymphoma cell lines. Cancer Res. 67 (6), 2783–2790. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-06-3254

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Subhashini, R. M. B., Amarathunga, N. L. K., Krishnarajah, S. A., Eeswara, J. P. (2011). Effect of benzylaminopurine, gibberellic acid, silver nitrate and silver thiosulphate, on postharvest longevity of cut leaves of dracaena. Ceylon J. Sci. 40 (2), 157–162.

Google Scholar

Teixeira, D. A. G. H. (2020). “Subtropical fruits: guavas,” in Controlled and modified atmospheres for fresh and fresh-cut produce (Cambridge, MA, USA: Academic Press), 435–445.

Google Scholar

Thakur, M., Chandel, A., Guleria, S., Verma, V., Kumar, R., Singh, G., et al. (2022). Synergistic effect of graphene oxide and silver nanoparticles as biostimulant improves the postharvest life of cut flower bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae l.). Front. Plant Sci. 13. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1006168

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Tian, J., Xie, S., Zhang, P., Wang, Q., Li, J., Xu, X. (2022). Attenuation of postharvest peel browning and chilling injury of banana fruit by astragalus polysaccharides. Postharvest Biol. Technl. 184, 111783. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2021.111783

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Tjia, B., Sheehan, T. J. (1984). Preserving profits and beauty. Greenh. Manage. 2 (11), 95–100.

Google Scholar

Urooj-UI-Nissa, B., Khan, F. U., Neelofar, N., Nazki, I. T., Klan, F. A., Dar, M. A. (2015). Physiological and flowering response of dahlia (Dahlia variabilisDesf.) cv. ‘Pink attraction’ to growing media. J.Plant Pest Sci. 2 (1), 33–42.

Google Scholar

Uthairatanakij, A., Tamala, W., Jitareerat, P., Obsuwan, K. (2007). Effect of pre-harvest chitosan sprays on growth of Curcuma 'Laddawan' (Curcuma alismatifolia × curcuma cordata). Acta Hortic. 755, 387–394. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2007.755.51

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

van Doorn, W. G. (2012). Water relations of cut flowers: an update. Horticul. Rev. 40, 55–106. doi: 10.1002/9781118351871.ch2

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Van Meeteren, U., Van Gelder, H., Van Ieperen, W. (1999). Reconsideration of the use of deionized water as vase water in postharvest experiments on cut flowers. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 17 (3), 175–187. doi: 10.1016/S0925-5214(99)00050-2

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Vats, S., Kumawat, S., Kumar, V., Patil, G. B., Joshi, T., Sonah, H., et al. (2019). Genome editing in plants: exploration of technological advancements and challenges. Cells 8 (11), 1386. doi: 10.3390/cells8111386

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Verma, A. K., Mandal, S., Tiwari, A., Monachesi, C., Catassi, G. N., Srivastava, A., et al. (2021). Current status and perspectives on the application of CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing system to develop a low-gluten, non-transgenic wheat variety. Foods 10 (10), 2351. doi: 10.3390/foods10102351

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Vieira, M. R., de Medeiros, D. C., Costa, P. N., Santos, C. M. G., de Alencar Paes, R., de Sousa Fernandez, L. M., et al. (2012). Effect of refrigeration on post-harvest flowers. AJB 11 (67), 13065–13068. doi: 10.5897/AJB12.840

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Wang, J. (2017). The relationship between pectinase and cellulase and post-harvest needle abscission in balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.)). Available at: https://dalspace.library.dal.ca/bitstream/handle/10222/73500/Wang-Jingyi-MSC-AGRI-December-2017.pdf?sequence=5&isAllowed=y.

Google Scholar

Wang, C., Fang, H., Gong, T., Zhang, J., Niu, L., Huang, D., et al. (2020). Hydrogen gas alleviates postharvest senescence of cut rose ‘Movie star’ by antagonizing ethylene. Plant Mol. Bio. 102, 271–285. doi: 10.1007/s11103-019-00946-3

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Wei, D., Zhang, T., Wang, B. (2022). Glycine betaine mitigates tomato chilling stress by maintaining high-cyclic electron flow rate of photosystem I and stability of photosystem II. Plant Cell Rep. 41, 1087–1101. doi: 10.1007/s00299-022-02839-0

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Whittaker, J. M. (1993). Post-harvest handling procedure for Jamaican grown cut flowers (Gainsville: Univ of Fla.).

Google Scholar

Win, N. W. (2020). Agronomical study on gladiolus gandavensis van houtte. and globba bulbifera roxb (Doctoral dissertation, MERAL portal). Univ. Mandalay Res. J. 11, 22–28.

Google Scholar

Woo, H. R., Masclaux-Daubresse, C., Lim, P. O. (2018). Plant senescence: how plants know when and how to die. J. Exp. Bot. 69 (4), 715–718. doi: 10.1093/jxb/ery011

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Wood, T. (1999). Ginger lilies. Amer. Gardener 78, 40–45.

Google Scholar

Yadav, A., Kumar, N., Upadhyay, A., Fawole, O. A., Mahawar, M. K., Jalgaonkar, K., et al. (2022). Recent advances in novel packaging technologies for shelf-life extension of guava fruits for retaining health benefits for longer duration. Plants 11 (4), 547. doi: 10.3390/plants11040547

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yagi, M. (2018). Recent progress in whole genome sequencing, high-density linkage maps, and genomic databases of ornamental plants. Breed Sci. 68, 62–70. doi: 10.1270/jsbbs.17080

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yan, A., Chen, Z. (2019). Impacts of silver nanoparticles on plants: a focus on the phytotoxicity and underlying mechanism. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 20 (5), 1003. doi: 10.3390/ijms20051003

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yeat, C. S. (2016). Phenological, postharvest physicochemical and ultrastructural characteristics of torch ginger (Etlingera elatior (jack) rm smith) inflorescence as a cut flower. Available at: http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/71487/1/FP%202016%2055%20-%20IR.pdf.

Google Scholar

Yimphak, K., Chanasut, U. (2009). Effects of cold storage and packaging methods on the quality of cut patumma (Curcuma alismatifolia) cv. ‘Chiang mai pink’ flowers. Acta Horticul. 673 (673), 525–529. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2005.673.70

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yin, J., Chang, X., Kasuga, T., Bui, M., Reid, M. S., Jiang, C. Z. (2015). A basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, PhFBH4, regulates flower senescence by modulating ethylene biosynthesis pathway in petunia. Horti. Res. 2, 15059. doi: 10.1038/hortres.2015.59

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yue, C., Hall, C. (2010). Traditional or specialty cut flowers? estimating U.S. consumers' choice of cut flowers at noncalendar occasions. Hort Sci. horts 45 (3), 382–386. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.45.3.382

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhang, D., Guo, X., Xu, Y., Li, H., Ma, L., Yao, X. (2019a). OsCIPK7 point-mutation leads to conformation and kinase-activity change for sensing cold response. J. Integr. Plant Biol. 61 (12), 1194–1200. doi: 10.1111/jipb.12800

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhang, W., Jiang, H., Cao, J., Jiang, W. (2021). Advances in biochemical mechanisms and control technologies to treat chilling injury in postharvest fruits and vegetables. Trends Food Sci. 113, 355–365. doi: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.05.009

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhang, Z., Xin, G., Zhou, G., Li, Q., Veeraraghavan, V. P., Krishna Mohan, S., et al. (2019b). Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Alpinia officinarum mitigates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity via down-regulating apoptotic pathway in rats. Artif. Cells Nanomed. Biotechnol. 47 (1), 3212–3221. doi: 10.1080/21691401.2019.1645158

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhao, H., Zhang, K., Zhou, X., Xi, L., Wang, Y., Xu, H., et al. (2017). Melatonin alleviates chilling stress in cucumber seedlings by up-regulation of CsZat12 and modulation of polyamine and abscisic acid metabolism. Sci. Rep. 7 (1), 49–98. doi: 10.1038/s41598-017-05267-3

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhu, Y., Liao, W. (2017). The metabolic constituent and rooting-related enzymes responses of marigold explants to hydrogen gas during adventitious root development. Theor. Exp. Plant Physiol. 29, 77–85. doi: 10.1007/s40626-017-0085-y

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhu, Q., Zhang, L., Li, L., Que, H., Zhang, G. (2016). Expression characterization of stress genes under high and low temperature stresses in the pacific oyster, crassostrea gigas. Mar. Biotechnol. 18 (2), 176–188. doi: 10.1007/s10126-015-9678-0

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zimmermann, U. (1978). Physic of turgor and osmoregulation. Annu. Rev. Plant Physiol. 29, 122–148. doi: 10.1146/annurev.pp.29.060178.001005

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zulfiqar, F., Nafees, M., Darras, A., Shaukat, N., Chen, J., Ferrante, A., et al. (2022). Pre-harvest potassium foliar application improves yield, vase life and overall postharvest quality of cut gladiolus inflorescences. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 192, 1120–1127. doi: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2022.112027

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar