The effectiveness of low temperatures on extending vase life of several cut flowers has been largely investigated. However, the temperature effect depends on the length of the storage period and of the floral species. The experiment was accomplished to evaluate the longevity and the metabolic changes which occurred during the cold storage of cut inflorescences of Oncidium varicosum 'Samurai' kept under different temperatures (5, 10 and 20°C). The following parameters were analyzed: relative water content (RWC), soluble carbohydrates, reducing sugars, carotenoids contents, color and longevity. The results indicated differences among the measured parameters at the three storage temperatures. The inflorescences of Oncidium varicosum 'Samurai' stored at 5ºC presented better maintenance of flowers quality than at the other temperatures. It was evidenced by the lower reduction of RWC, better maintenance of carotenoids, soluble carbohydrates and reducing sugars. The flowers kept at 5°C also presented maintenance of coloration and greater longevity.
orchids; golden shower; Annita's flower; postharvest; temperature
