Light, temperature, and floral preservative effects on postharvest longevity of perennial flax (Linum spp.) cut flowers

Flower longevity and vase life/stem were measured to determine maximum vase life of perennial flax cut flower (CF) genotypes within a breeding programme. These traits were of interest as maximum stem vase life is desired in the CF market. The objective was to test effects of storage temperature, light, and preservatives on vase life of sixteen genotypes (CF1-CF16). Genotype significantly affected all postharvest floral traits. Temperature had a significant effect on floral development, anthesis, longevity, and senescence. At 4±1℃, flowers lasted 2.78–4.03d, but 9 d had bud abscission and chlorosis, especially dark-stored stems. We conclude for maximal perennial flax postharvest vase life of >5 d) with 2–3 open flowers/stem that stems be stored (