Natural Skullcap Extracts Substitute Commercial Preservatives during Summer Export for Cut Rose Flowers

Preservative effect of natural skullcap extract (Scutellaria baicalensis, SC solution) in cut rose flower ‘Fuego’ under simulated summer export conditions was investigated. The t ransport conditions were divided into dry and wet transports. The wet t ransport was t reated with tap water, Floralife 1%, and SC solution 300 mg･L-1. The vase life of cut rose flowers in the wet transport was extended longer than in dry t ransport. It was two days longer in the SC solution, which is similar to the extension effect of commercial preservatives, Floralife. The discoloration was the main symptom o f vase l ife in d ry t ransport. The bent neck and petal wilting reached 60% to 70% in the wet transport regardless of preservatives. These results show that the native skullcap extracts have a positive effect on the vase life extension of cut rose flowers during summer export, thus they could be applied as eco-friendly alternative preservatives.