Question

Explain briefly the post-harvest care of Gerbera under the following heads:
Harvesting
Pre-cooling
Pulsing
Storage

Hint:

Timely harvesting, quick pre-cooling, pulsing with preservative solutions, and maintaining cold storage are key steps in maximizing the vase life of Gerbera flowers.

Answer 1

(a) Harvesting:

Gerbera flowers should be harvested during cooler periods, either early morning or late evening. Cut the flowers just as petals begin to unfurl but before they fully open to maximize vase life. Ensure the cut is made above the first mature leaf node for longer stems and improved water absorption.

(b) Pre-cooling:

Following harvest, Gerbera flowers must be pre-cooled to remove field heat and slow respiration. This involves immersing the flowers in cool water or placing them in refrigerated rooms at 4°C to 6°C for several hours. Pre-cooling is essential for extending vase life and maintaining freshness.

(c) Pulsing:

Pulsing treatment applies a sugar and preservative solution to harvested flowers for a few hours to enhance water uptake and longevity. This solution typically contains sucrose, a germicide, and sometimes a plant growth regulator. This process delays senescence and preserves flower quality.

(d) Storage:

Post-pulsing, Gerbera flowers should be stored in cold conditions between 0°C and 2°C with high humidity (90-95%). This reduces transpiration and metabolic rates. Appropriate storage conditions extend shelf life and maintain the flowers' color and texture until market delivery.