PROJECT R&D+I

TITLE
GREENROSE - MODELING THE POST-HARVEST QUALITY OF ROSES: GENOTYPIC
VARIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

HIGHLIGHTS
Understanding modeling of the mechanisms involved in the abnormal functioning of the
stomata using the rose as a model. Contribution to the implementation of a post-harvest
quality label for ornamental plants.

ABSTRACT
This Project aims at understanding and modelling the underlying mechanisms that might explain
stomatal malfunctioning, role of the roots and the reasons for cultivar differences in their
tolerance to high RH.
Cut rose will be used as a model system, since it is by far the plant in which most studies on the
present subject have been conducted, and it is one of the most important cut flowers worldwide.
Several experiments will be carried out in controlled environments to guarantee an accurate RH
control. Rose cuttings from contrasting cultivars in their sensitivity to high RH will be grown in a
hydroponic system and will be subjected to moderate (55±5%) and high (90±5%) RH levels. Detailed
measurements on leaf and stomatal anatomy, morphology and physiology will be conducted in
order to test the working hypothesis.

Post-harvest vase life will be thoroughly studied in plants grown under different experimental set-
ups. The current project brings together researchers that work in Floriculture in Portugal and
researchers from Wageningen University, with complementary expertise in ecophysiology,
postharvest physiology and modelling that are essential for the success of this interdisciplinary
project. In the long run this project will contribute to the implementation of a label for post-
harvest quality in ornamental plants.

KEYWORDS
Roses, Quality, Environmental Effects, Genotypic Variation.

PROMOTERS / PARTNERS
Escola Superior de Biotecnologia – Universidade Católica Portuguesa (Coordinator); Universidade do Algarve
(UAlg); Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD); Wageningen University (WU).

FINANCING PROGRAM EXECUTION DATE GLOBAL BUDGET

PTDC/AGR- AAM/67082/2006 2009-2012 € 174.000,00

CONTACTS (ESB) E-MAIL PHONE

Susana Carvalho smcarvalho@porto.ucp.pt +351 22 558 00 01