Effects of different light spectra on postharvest water relations of Anthurium under chilling conditions

Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum L.) is a cold-sensitive species originating from the tropical region of the world. This plant is widely cultivated all around the globe for the beauty of its ornamental spathes. Here, the effect of light quality on water loss of cut anthurium flowers was tested under chilling conditions. Cut flowers of two anthurium cultivars, ‘Calore’ (red spathe) and ‘Angel’ (withe spathe), were exposed to a cold temperature (4°C) under different light spectra, including darkness (D), red (R), blue (B), 7:3 ratio of red:blue (RB), and white (W). The results showed that ‘Angel’ flowers under the B light spectrum had the lowest relative water content (RWC) and specific surface area. It also showed the lowest spathe water content on a dry weight basis. The lowest vase life was obtained for ‘Angel’ under the B light spectrum, while the longest vase life was obtained under the R light, for both studied cultivars. Under the B light treatment, more open stomata were observed. Accordingly, the highest water loss was observed in all treatments with the B light, and the lowest percentage of water loss was observed in the D and R light, especially in ‘Angel’ flowers. In conclusion, the B light spectrum negatively influences vase life of cut anthurium flowers, through its effect on water relations of the spathes.</p