The Preservation Effect of 8-hydroxyquinoline on Cut Rhododendron obtussum

The effect of different concentrations of 8-hydroxyquinoline on the physiological changes such as vase preservation life, fresh quality changes, membrane stability and ornamental quality of fresh cut Rhododendron obtussum (Limdl.) Planch ‘Fentuanyuan’ flowers were tested and comprehensive evaluation was conducted, hoping for screening the appropriate preservative of R. obtussum and providing theoretical foundation of preservation. The study showed that 100 ~ 300 mg·L⁻¹ 8-hydroxyquinoline had a positive effect on the preservation of R. obtussum ‘Fentuanyuan’, which could effectively delay the appearance of petal edge curling and wilting, promoted the increase of flower diameter, prolonged the flowering time, maintained the water balance and membrane stability in cut flowers, and significantly extended the vase preservation life. Two hundred mg·L⁻¹ 8-hydroxyquinoline was most beneficial for maintaining water balance, delaying cell membrane permeability and increasing malondialdehyde content in cut flowers. After screening, the combination 30 g·L⁻¹ sucrose and 200 mg·L⁻¹ 8-hydroxyquinoline was an effective preservative suitable for R. obtussum ‘Fentuanyuan’.