Enhancement of Vase Life and Biochemical Stability of Spathoglottis plicata Using Low-Cost Preservative Solutions

Abstract

An investigation was conducted to evaluate the effects of different low-cost vase solutions on the postharvest performance of Spathoglottis plicata inflorescences under tropical ambient conditions. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomised design (CRD) with five treatments and three replications. Vase life, physiological loss in weight (PLW), decay loss and biochemical attributes, including total anthocyanin content (TAC), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and total tannin content (TTC), were evaluated at 5-day intervals. Significant differences were observed among treatments for all parameters. The maximum vase life (20 days) was recorded in T2, followed by T3 (18 days), T5 (16 days) and T4 (14 days), whereas the minimum was observed in T1 (8 days). T2 also showed the lowest PLW (5.8% at day 5) and decay loss (2.5% at day 5), indicating improved water relations and reduced microbial deterioration. Biochemical analysis revealed that T2 maintained higher levels of anthocyanins (28.4 to 19.1 mg/100 g), phenolics (10.5 to 7.1 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (7.6 to 5.2 mg QE/g) and tannins (3.8 to 2.4 g EC/100 g DM) throughout vase life, suggesting enhanced metabolic stability and delayed senescence. The improved performance of T2 may be attributed to the combined effects of carbohydrates, acidifying agents and antimicrobial compounds in maintaining water uptake, reducing oxidative stress and preserving cellular integrity. The study concludes that low-cost preservative solutions can effectively enhance the postharvest quality and longevity of Spathoglottis plicata, indicating its potential as a cut flower for commercial utilisation under tropical conditions.