Effects of Low Temperature on Dormancy Release in Lily Bulbs

The mechanism of dormancy and dormancy release in lily (Lilium spp.) bulbs is still incomplete and ambiguous. Based on a summary of dormancy characteristics, we review the effects of low temperature on dormancy release. This paper highlights the metabolic changes in carbohydrates, endogenous hormones, free amino acids and phenols during low temperature storage, and the key stages in dormancy release as well as the effects of different parts of the lily bulb. The possible physiological mechanism of low temperature on dormancy release in lily bulbs and some problems which should be investigated in this field are also discussed in this review.