Pre Harvest Calcium Treatment under Selected Poly Films Improves Leaf Chlorophyll Content in Rose Cut Flower: Scientific Study

Quality is a key attribute in marketing of cut flowers. This experiment was designed to investigate the
effect of light transmission through selected poly films, rose cultivar and calcium foliar feed on leaf
chlorophyll content. The study site was at an elevation of 2238 m above sea level with average
maximum and minimum temperature ranges from 19°C to 22°C and 5°C to 8°C respectively. The area
receives a total annual rainfall ranging from 1200 mm to 1400 mm. The experimental design was split
split plot laid down in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with poly films forming the main
plot treatments. Data collection involved use of Watch dog data logger mini weather station to
determine Photosynthetically active radiation among other spectrum properties. Light transmission
was evaluated using UV-1800 Shimadzu spectrophotometer. It was observed that leaf chlorophyll
content increased with increase in calcium concentration in the foliar feed. The effect of temperature
caused by varying light intensity on chlorophyll content is also discussed. The results obtained show
impact of environmental and nutritional factors on rose cut flower quality.