Plant extract has been exploited for biogenic synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. This is considered as the promising alternative routes of chemical and physical synthesis methods owing to their abundancy in nature and ecofriendly friendly synthesis protocol. Rose is the top-ranked and universally favorite cut flower. Poor post-harvest management deteriorates the quality and reduces the vase life. Microbial proliferation of the stem base in the vase solution is a concern for these cut flowers that shortens their vase-life. To overcome this problem, a smart solution i.e. phytofabricated silver nanoparticles have been shown to act as anti-microbial agent. In this study, leaf extracts of Camellia sinensis were exploited to fabricate biogenic silver nanoparticles which showing UV-peak absorption ranging from 412-500 nm. This biogenic silver nanoparticles were applied @ 0.01, 0.05 and 0.1mM and compared with a control (without AgNPs) and silver nitrate (AgNO3). Interestingly, AgNPs showed a strong antimicrobial activity in vase solution and cut roses extended their vase life up to 13 days compared to 8 days in control and 9 days in AgNO3. Statistical differences in flower opening, bacterial growth (CFUmL−1) in vase solutions, water uptake, relative fresh weight and vase life of cut roses were found among treatments. In vitro microbial analysis and microscopic investigation of vessels showed that the development of microorganisms was reduced by a high concentration of AgNPs (0.1mM) at the cut end of flower and improving water uptake that followed by extended flowers vase life. The unique phytofabricated AgNPs technology can serve as a promising preservative to increase the ornamental value of cut rose flowers. Taken all together, applied phytofabricated AgNPs in vase solution significantly enhance vase life of cut rose flowers over control.
Key words: Phytofabrication, AgNPs, antimicrobial agent, vase life, cut flowers
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