Influence of water deficit on the longevity of ethylene-sensitive and ethylene-insensitive flowers

Abstract

Water balance significantly influences the longevity, quality, and ornamental value of floricultural products. Inadequate irrigation during cultivation and dry postharvest storage may result in water imbalance, leading to dehydration in ornamental crops and cut flowers. This review focuses on the responses of both ethylene-sensitive and ethylene-insensitive flowers to water deficit and the potential application of exogenous substances to alleviate the harmful effects of dehydration. Alterations in stomatal function and hydraulic conductivity are key changes that drive water loss and hormones like ABA and ethylene play an essential role in determining flower longevity during desiccation events. To overcome the adverse effects of dehydration, mechanisms including osmotic adjustment, antioxidant systems and/or abscission must be tightly regulated in both ethylene-sensitive and ethylene-insensitive flowers. Understanding these processes in ornamental crops and floricultural products will help develop strategies to enhance water stress tolerance and, consequently, flower longevity.