Increased Leaf Senescence in Geranium ( Pelargonium x hortorum ) Cutting Propagations with Simulated Shipping Delays

Abstract

Geranium flowers are one of the most popular floriculture crops in the world. In the United States, geraniums had a wholesale value of ≈80.7 million dollars in 2020. The majority of these plants come from vegetative propagating stock plant facilities in Mexico, Central America, and parts of Africa which involve long-distance shipping operations. During shipping, plant cuttings are without light and may be exposed to unfavorable air temperatures, humidity, pathogens, and ethylene. Time spent in shipping may also result in decreased photosynthetic rates, decreased chlorophyll content, physical damage, leaf loss, and increased chlorosis ratings indicative of leaf aging all of which can reduce the marketability of rooted cuttings after transplanting. Two-day shipping for geranium cuttings is a widely accepted standard by horticulturists. After shipping, stem cuttings need to be properly planted and nurtured to root and become healthy established organisms for sale. Increased supply chain disturbances and unpredictable shipping delays are becoming more common, affecting the health and profitability of floral products.