Reducing Corolla Abscission of Streptocarpus × hybridus under Simulated Shipping Conditions with Silver Thiosulfate

Abstract

Silver thiosulfate (STS) foliar sprays applied 1 and 4 weeks prior to simulated shipping reduced corolla abscission of Streptocarpus × hybridus Voss. Spray concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mm were all effective in reducing corolla abscission when appropriately timed. Sprays applied 24 hr prior to shipping caused necrotic lesions on the flowers and foliage and proved harmful in the warm, humid environment used in simulated shipping. A combination treatment with STS (2 mm) sprayed 4 weeks and again 24 hr prior to shipping showed the 4-week spray treatment to precondition the plants thereby preventing injurious effects by the 24 hr treatment and decreasing corolla abscission 46.6%. STS folair sprays applied one week prior to shipping at 0.5 him and 1.0 mm prevented corolla abscission with 0% corolla abscission after simulated shipping.

Reduction of Postproduction Quality Loss in Potted Miniature Roses

“…Ethylene has been implicated as an important agent in reducing quality in many ornamentals, including potted flowering plants (Moe and Fjeld, 1985) and cut roses (Reid et al, 1989). Applying silver thiosulfate (STS) reduced the effects of exogenous ethylene and of enhanced endogenous ethylene production from environmental stresses in species such as Pelargonium, Schlumbergera, Streptocarpus, Impatiens, and Zygocactus (Agnew et al, 1985;Reid, 1981, 1983). Flower bud abscission and lack of bud opening typical of potted roses in a home environment suggest an ethylene effect.…”