The aim of this experiment was to determine the sensitivity and responses of the 'Osiana' (Rosa × hybrida ) rose to the presence of ethylene through postharvest life. The flower stems were placed in closed chambers and immediately treated with 0.0, 0.1, 1.0, 10, 100 and 1000 µL L-1ethylene for 24 h. The postharvest life of the flower was reduced when exposed to 10 µL L-1ethylene or higher, with flowers developing necrosis, wilting and the petals prematurely abscising. Ethylene concentrations of 0.1 and 1.0 µL L-1hastened the opening of flower buds within the 24 h of ethylene treatment, with no subsequent reduction of postharvest life. The flowers of rose 'Osiana' can be classified as sensitive to ethylene with the concentration influencing the stimulated processes.
postharvest; cut flower; vase life
