Effect of calcium chloride and salicylic acid on some morphological, biochemical and postharvest properties of alstroemeria cut flowers ‘Orange Queen’

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of varying calcium chloride (CaCl2) and salicylic acid (SA) concentrations on the growth, biochemical, and postharvest quality of Alstroemeria ‘Orange Queen’ flowers. A completely randomized factorial design (CRD) with two factors and three replications was employed. The first factor involved foliar application of 0, 75, 150, or 225 mg L-1 CaCl2, while the second factor consisted of 0, 150, 300, or 450 mg L-1 SA. Morphological characteristics (number of leaves, leaf fresh and dry weight, number of florets) and biochemical parameters (photosynthetic pigment content, soluble sugar content) were evaluated. Additionally, postharvest traits (relative fresh weight, relative solution uptake, malondialdehyde content, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activity) were assessed. The highest fresh and dry weights and the greatest number of florets were observed in Alstroemeria treated with 225 mg L-1 CaCl2 and 450 mg L-1 SA. This combination also improved the flowers' postharvest quality. Photosynthetic pigment content was significantly enhanced by both CaCl2 and SA, while malondialdehyde content was reduced compared to the control. Antioxidant enzyme activity was significantly increased following the application of CaCl2 and SA. Foliar application of 225 mg L-1 CaCl2 and 450 mg L-1 SA promoted the growth, biochemical composition, and postharvest quality of Alstroemeria ‘Orange Queen’ flowers. This treatment improved flower size, number, and enhanced their resistance to stress, suggesting its potential for enhancing the commercial value of this cultivar.