The addition of glucose in holding solution enhances vase life and inflorescence quality of cut hydrangea flower over the application of sucrose or mannitol

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the effect of different sugar types on the vase life of cut hydrangea flowers. There were 19 treatments based on concentrations and sucrose, glucose, and mannitol combinations. The results showed that the vase solution with 5% glucose provided the most extended vase life, which was 12.4 d, while the control solution with distilled water presented 8.86 d. The results were correlated with the total solution uptake, the number of days for reaching maximum inflorescene diameter, maximum sepal hardness score, chlorophyll content, and sepal electrolyte leakage. It could be implied that glucose alone extends hydrangea vase life by inactivating the ethylene signaling pathway. Based on the sepal size and colour, 3% glucose treatment which generated the second-highest vase life, could be the appropriate concentration for improving flower quality and longevity. This study provides essential information to understand hydrangea flower senescence and develop better vase solutions for cut hydrangea flowers.