Effect of essential oils and silver based biocides on the vase life of cut carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus cv. dark-dona)

This study was conducted to investigated the effect of some Essential oil (Lavender, Rosemary, Sage oil), Sucrose and Silver thiosulphate in combination or alone for extending the vase life of cut carnation. Stem of cut carnation were kept in solution containing essential oil of Lavender, Rosemary and Sage (100 & 200 ppm), STS (0.5mM) and sucrose (5%) and control. Data showed that solution containing Lavender oil 200 ppm +STS 0.5Mm + sucrose 5% could increase the flower longevity than control and maintained better water relations i.e. Total solution absorbed by stem, fresh weight and vase life. Totally our results suggest that the application of Lavender oil 200 ppm +STS 0.5Mm + sucrose 5% is proved to be best preservative solution for cut carnation flowers.