Chitosan and copper nanoparticles in vase solutions elevate the quality and longevity of cut tulips, setting a new standard for sustainability in floriculture.

Chitosan and copper nanoparticles in vase solutions elevate the quality and longevity of cut tulips, setting a new standard for sustainability in floriculture. | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Chitosan and copper nanoparticles in vase solutions elevate the quality and longevity of cut tulips, setting a new standard for sustainability in floriculture. Eman Z. Othman, Rasha A. El-Ziat, Iman M. El-Sayed2 This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-5976331/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Nanoparticles offer innovative solutions for postharvest applications, allowing for the development of innovative compounds that effectively extend the shelf life of cut flowers by reducing ethylene production and preventing bacterial growth. Tulips as a leading choice among cut flowers, encounter common issues such as neck bending and a limited display life, which can severely impact their marketability. This experiment aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nano chitosan (CHS-NPs) at 3.5 and 7.0 mg L − 1 , nano copper (Cu-NPs) at 15 and 30 mg L − 1 , and lemongrass essential oil (LG) at 150 and 300 mg L − 1 as innovative, eco-friendly solutions for improving the quality and extending the shelf life of cut tulip flowers. The findings reveal that CHS-NPs and Cu-NPs significantly prolong the vase life of cut tulip flowers, with optimal concentrations determined to be 7.5 mg L − 1 and 30 mg L − 1 , respectively. These treatments not only enhance water uptake and relative fresh weight (RFW%) but also effectively inhibit microbial growth at the stem base and prevent bacterial blockages in the xylem for up to seven days. Moreover, they substantially increase chlorophyll levels, total soluble carbohydrates, and proteins while decreasing hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) production and boosting antioxidant enzyme activity, thereby enhancing membrane stability. In conclusion, CHS-NPs at 7.5 mg L − 1 and Cu-NPs at 30 mg L − 1 significantly enhance the vase life of cut tulips by improving water balance and antioxidant activity, with Cu-NPs demonstrating better effectiveness. The adoption of Cu-NPs at the recommended concentration should be prioritized in the tulip floral industry. Horticulture Plant Physiology and Morphology Chitosan Copper Nanoparticles Essential Oil Antioxidant enzyme activity Floral industry Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 11 Figure 12 Figure 13 1. Introduction The floriculture industry is very profitable, especially in developing countries. However, it needs careful management and a more environmentally sustainable business model (Yaquby et al. 2022 ; Etheredge et al. 2024 ). Tulips ( Tulipa gesneriana L.) are important floricultural crops that hold a significant position in the global flower market, ranking third in sales value among cut flowers sold in the Netherlands, following roses and chrysanthemums (Ahmad and Dole 2014 ). With their vibrant colors and delightful fragrances, tulips attract consumers, driving demand and creating trade opportunities (Benschop et al. 2010). This blooming bulbous plant belongs to the Liliaceae family and boasts over 2,500 cultivars, primarily found in temperate zones (Sharma et al. 2022 ). The tulip is also one of the national symbols of the Netherlands, frequently used in landscaping, including flower galaxies and floral arrangements as cut flowers (Sochacki and Treder 2017 ). It is also known as the turban flower because it is large and has multiple layers of bright, warm-colored petals (Marasek-Ciolakowska et al. 2021 ). The beauty, quality, and longevity of tulip flowers depend on their growing conditions, harvest timing, and postharvest care, also the surrounding environment plays a key role in helping tulips thrive (Ullah et al. 2022 ). Tulip cut flowers must be monitored after harvest and subjected to effective procedures such as cooling, pulsing, and storage in floral hydrating preservatives, along with various packing strategies (Tayal et al. 2021 ). Hence, caring for all the above increases tulips flower comparatively short vase life, lasting about 7–10 days postharvest by delaying flower senescence, which enhances customer satisfaction, as the longevity of cut flowers significantly impacts their perceived value (Skutnik et al., 2020 ). Tulips are pretty flowers, but their storage and vase life are limited due to early senescence, a process that damages cellular structures (Ullah et al. 2022 ). This deterioration results in visible issues such as bent necks, yellowing leaves, and wilting blooms (Jahnke et al. 2022 ), which can negatively impact their market value. Additionally, microbial contamination can lead to xylem blockage and disrupt the balance between water uptake and loss, further contributing to wilting (Ahmad et al. 2014 ). Fortunately, advancements in post-harvest technology, including effective floral preservatives, are helping to address these challenges (Spricigo et al. 2021 ). Floral preservatives in holding solutions greatly benefit cut tulip producers and consumers, due to their antimicrobial properties ensure freshness, maintain water absorption, reduce oxidative stress, and provide essential energy, helping to prevent carbohydrate depletion (Song et al. 2021 ). Although chemical preservatives effectively prolong the vase life of flowers, their potential harm to environmental and human health cannot be overlooked (Anjum et al. 2010). Nanoparticles (NPs) are revolutionizing postharvest technology by extending the vase life of fresh-cut flowers by synthesizing compounds at the nanoscale, which these particles offer exceptional properties that reduce the material needed to achieve remarkable results (Manzoor et al., 2020 ). NPs are non-toxic, cost-effective, and eco-friendly, making them a sustainable choice for floral preservation. Also, their powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties further enhance the freshness and longevity of cut flowers (Zahedi et al., 2020 ). In this sense, it had demonstrated that copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) which are hypothesized to exhibit similar effects to sodium hypochlorite and nano silver due to stimulatory, unique effects associated with the induction of anti-microbial agents and antioxidant activities (Adhikari et al. 2016 ). In addition, Cu is a microelement necessary for growth and development and may also have a nourishing effect on vase water (Crisan et al. 2022 ; Dalda Şekerci et al. 2024 ). Cu-NPs facilitate easier cell wall interaction and crossing with the intracellular and principles to promote the development of ROS (reactive oxygen species), thus activating the cell defense mechanism (Al-Hakkani 2020 ). On the other hand, chitosan (CHS) is a naturally occurring cationic polymer derived from chitin found in insect cuticles, crustacean shells, and fungi cell walls, which is well-known for having broad-spectrum antioxidants and anti-microbial properties (El-Sayed et al. 2020 ). Therefore, chitosan in nano form (CHS-NPs) has emerged as a promising sustainable preservative for flowers due to its effectiveness stems from its ability to enhance the performance of antimicrobial agents while also promoting their availability and biodegradability (SeyedHajizadeh et al. 2024 ). The antimicrobial properties of chitosan are attributed to its positively charged amine groups, which interact with the negatively charged membranes of microbial cells, leading to the leakage of their cellular contents (Dutta and Dutta 2010 ). Additionally, CHS-NPs play a crucial role in extending the vase life of cut flowers by slowing their aging process. They effectively scavenge harmful hydroxyl and superoxide radicals, which protect DNA and enhance antioxidant activities, keeping flowers fresher and more visually appealing for longer (Ali et al. 2022 ). The unique properties of CHS-NPs, such as the quantum size effect, small size, non-toxic, low cost, and eco-friendly, could make them perform excellent activities (Khatri et al. 2020 ). Recently, the option of essential oils (EOs) has been an exciting alternative and novel idea in floral preservatives (Teerarak et al. 2024 ). These natural organic compounds are complex, volatile mixtures of secondary metabolites, including phenols and their by-products (Mutlu-Ingok et al. 2020 ). Because these substances boast impressive antimicrobial properties that effectively prevent the blockage of xylem vessels, they are volatile and safe, making them less hazardous than synthetic alternatives (El-Sayed and El-Ziat 2021 ). There are a few discussions on the efficacy of EOs in controlling microbial growth and antioxidant activities for prolonging the vase life of cut flowers (Othman and Esmail 2020 ). EOs of lemongrass ( Cymbopogon flexuosus ) plants (LG) have a high of citral, limonene, and geranyl acetate constituents, which are responsible for controlling water pH, microorganism growth, and significant scavenging power against free radicals and their ability to mitigate oxidative damage (Schweitzer et al. 2022 ). Our literature survey highlights a significant gap in research regarding the use of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG as floral preservatives for tulip-cut flowers. Despite increasing interest in eco-friendly solutions, there is a scarcity of studies focused on sustainable preservatives that can extend the vase life of cut tulips. This study investigates the effectiveness of Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG at various concentrations. Our goal is to demonstrate how these natural substances can enhance the longevity of tulip flowers by delaying senescence while maintaining their quality and freshness. Ultimately, we seek to identify the most effective, eco-friendly, and affordable floral preservatives suitable for wider use in the floral industry. 2. Materials and methods 2.1. Plant material Tulip ( Tulipa gesneriana L.) cv, ‘Apeldoorn Red’ cut flowers used in the experiment were from the commercial growing farm “Floramix Farm” in Kafr Hakim, Giza, Egypt. The flowers were moved to the laboratory of the Ornamental Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt, during two successive seasons, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Flowers were harvested in the same developmental phase with an early opening stage when buds showed full color and were within one day of opening, as Armitage and Laushman ( 2003 ) recommended. The excess leaves on the lower third of the stem were removed and trimmed to about 40 cm with four intact leaves. Then they were cut 1 cm above the base plate of the stem by a slant cut into clear distilled water, which was then made to increase surface area for better water absorption when placed in glass vials (600 ml) holding different vase solutions of 500 ml contain, every vase solution have as two cut tulip stems in a controlled temperature of 20 ± 1°C, relative humidity of 60 ± 5% (12 h day/ 12 h night), and the flowers were evaluated daily. 2.2. Floral Preservative Treatments Preparation. This experiment included examining the influence of one of seven solutions: water with 15 mmol L − 1 sucrose (carbon source in all treatments) as control (T1), with 3.5 mg L − 1 CHS-NPs (T2), 7 mg L − 1 CHS-NPs (T3), 15 mg L − 1 Cu-NPs (T4), 30 mg L − 1 Cu-NPs (T5), 150 mg L − 1 LG oil (T6), or the last one with 300 mg L − 1 LG oil (T7). All solutions were prepared using distilled water and 0.1% (v/v) Tween-20 as a wetting agent and surfactant, sourced from Sigma-Aldrich in St. Louis, MO. These ingredients break down compounds before adding them to the floral preservative solutions. Additionally, surfactants create micro-holes in membranes, facilitating the penetration of macromolecules into cells, and ensuring optimal effectiveness (Moussa et al. 2024 ). In addition, LG oil was purchased from the Unity of Squeezing and Extracting Natural Oils at the NRC (National Research Centre) in Doki, Giza, Egypt. Each treatment included six cut tulip stems, with two tagged and treated separately. Stems were monitored daily for flower longevity and weight. A flower was deemed severed when over half of the tepal area wilted, changed color at the edges, and tepals naturally fell off, turning yellow with wilted leaves (Iwaya-Inoue and Tataka 2001 ). 2.3. Copper and Chitosan Nanoparticles. Copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs), sourced from Sigma-Aldrich Chemical Corporation, USA, have demonstrated effectiveness as Zafar et al. ( 2016 ). Additionally, we utilized low molecular weight chitosan (over 85% deacetylated), also acquired from Sigma-Aldrich. A chitosan solution was prepared by melting it in a 0.25% acetic acid solution (Merck, Germany). To create nano-chitosan (CHS-NPs), this was further dissolved into a 1% acetic acid solution, stirred overnight for complete dissolution, then adjusted with distilled water to the desired volume. The concentration of chitosan nanoparticles was set to 50 nm, following the methods outlined by Khairy et al. ( 2022 ). Their properties are summarized in Table (1) and illustrated in Figure (1). CHS-NPs and Cu-NPs are dispersed in a lot of distilled water. Table 1 Properties of Chitosan and Copper as nanoparticles. Chitosan NPs CHS-NPs Properties Molecular weight: Less than 100k Da Degree of Deacetylation: 85% Appearance (color): White Appearance (form): Suspension Avg-size (TEM): Less than 50 nm Shape (TEM): Spherical shape Copper NPs Cu-NPs Properties Batch number: 002 Appearance (color): Chestnut brown to Black Avg-size (TEM): Less than 100 nm Appearance (form): Powder NPs = Nanoparticles 2.4. Data recorded. 2.4.1. Vase Life. Cut tulips Flowers were meticulously observed daily to evaluate flower longevity and the progression of senescence based on clear indicators of wilting and abscission. This hands-on approach allowed us to accurately estimate vase life by counting the days from the moment the flowers were placed in vase solutions (the first day) until a sizable portion of the tepal and leaf area exhibited severe wilting and the tepals naturally detached (the last day). Additionally, we conducted a thorough visual assessment of flower and leaf coloration, following the methods established by Iwaya-Inoue and Tataka ( 2001 ). This comprehensive evaluation ensures that we capture the complete lifecycle and vibrancy of the flowers. 2.4.2. Relative fresh weight (RFW%). The fresh weight of the flowers was appointed immediately before immersion in the solutions on the first day. This initial weight was essential for assessing their water status and was measured daily until the end of the vase's life (Joyce and Jones 1992 ). The flowers were briefly removed from the solutions for 10 to 20 seconds to facilitate monitoring without affecting hydration. RFW % = [final weight / initial weight] x 100 2.4.3. Floral Solution uptake (g/stem/day). The weights of the glass vials holding only water solutions, without flowers, were recorded every two days during the vase life evaluation (Elhindi 2012 ). The following formula determines the rate of floral solution uptake: Solution Uptake = [(St − 1 - St)] Where St = Solution weight (g) at times 3, 5, and 7 days; St − 1 = solution weight (g) on the previous day by El-Sayed and El-Ziat ( 2021 ). 2.4.4. water loss (g/ flower/ day). To accurately assess water loss, we measured the weight of vases with cut flowers daily during the vase life evaluation period. By the conclusion of this assessment for each treatment, we were able to calculate the total days of water solution loss, providing valuable insights into the hydration of the flowers as: Water Loss (g/ flower/ day) = (Ct − 1 − Ct) where Ct is the combination of the weight of cut flowers and the vase solution (g) at t = days 2, 4, 6, and Ct − 1 is the combination of the weights of cut flowers and vase solution (g) on 0, 2 and 4 days, respectively, by Lü et al. ( 2011 ). 2.4.5. Stomatal conductance and chlorophyll content index (SPAD). Chlorophyll content was measured in mature leaves seven days after treatment in both seasons. Stomatal conductance was measured in mature leaves on the 3, 5, and 7 days after treatments during both seasons. We used the Minolta Chlorophyll Meter (model SPAD-501) for chlorophyll readings and the LICOR 6400 (Lincoln, Nebraska, USA) for stomatal conductance (µmol H2O m − 2 s − 1 ), following Khan et al. ( 2003 ). Light intensity in the sampling chamber was set to 1500 µmol m − 2 s − 1 using a Li-6400-02B LED light source (LI-COR). Each leaf represented a single replication, with three replications per treatment (n = 3). 2.4.6. Total soluble carbohydrate and protein (g kg − 1 F.W.). The total level of soluble carbohydrates directly reflects the content of starch and soluble sugars, highlighting its importance. After seven days during the shelf-life period, we carefully measured the soluble carbohydrate content of fresh weight (FW) in the petals, adhering to the method of Irigoyen et al. ( 1992 ). Furthermore, we determined protein concentration using the reliable Bradford ( 1976 ) method. 2.4.7. Superoxide dismutase, and catalase enzyme activities (Units mg − 1 protein). To effectively assess the health of cut tulip flowers, we recorded the levels of oxidative stress after a seven-day storage period in liquid nitrogen at − 81°C. Following this critical period, we measured the activity of essential antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), based on the extracted protein content. Therefore, frozen samples were finely ground using mortars placed on an ice bath to maintain their temperature. A total of 100 mg of the resulting powder was then homogenized in an extraction solution composed of 50 mM PBS (plant bio-stimulants), 2% polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), 1 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and 0.05% Triton X-100. Finally, the pH of the solution was carefully adjusted to 7.0 by adding 0.1 N hydrochloric acid (HCl). The supernatant was collected into new tubes following centrifugation at 13,000 rpm for 20 minutes at 4°C. We confidently determined SOD activity by measuring the reduction of Nitro Blue Tetrazolium (NBT), as established by Giannopolitis and Ries ( 1977 ). We also effectively assessed CAT activity through the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), following the robust method described by Cakmak and Marschner ( 1992 ). 2.4.8. Quantification of Hydrogen Peroxide H 2 O 2 µmol g − 1 . After a seven-day shelf-life period, the amount of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), serving as oxidative stress markers in fresh petals, was quantified. This assessment was carried out using a Unico UV-2100 spectrophotometer from the USA, which facilitated the measurement of absorption at 390 nm, following the methodology established by Alexieva et al. ( 2001 ). This thorough approach ensures an accurate evaluation of the health and quality of the petals. 2.4.9. Averages of bacterial counts (CFU m L − 1 ) In the keeping solution, we incubated the average bacterial infection for 36 hours following a seven-day shelf life. We diluted samples of preservative solutions (1 ml each) with sterilized distilled water and placed them in Petri dishes. Each dish received 10 ml of sterilized plate agar medium and peptone water, which was stirred briefly for 5 to 10 seconds and incubated for 2 days at 30°C. Finally, we counted the bacterial colonies based on CFU/ ml, following the method of Marousky ( 1970 ). 2.4.10. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) After the experiment, we conducted a detailed microscopic analysis to investigate xylem obstruction caused by bacteria at the base of the stems of cut tulip flowers. Bozzola and Russell ( 1999 ) emphasize the importance of this analysis, as the tulip samples were meticulously prepared and examined using a JEOL (JEM-1400 TEM) transmission electron microscope. 2.5. Statistical analysis. The statistical layout of the experiment was a complete randomized design that featured three replicates of 21 distinct treatments (3 × 7). To ensure rigorous analysis, we employed an analysis of variance (ANOVA) test at a 5% significance level using SPSS software version 21 (Armonk, NY, USA). Furthermore, to draw meaningful comparisons among treatments, Duncan’s multiple range test was implemented (p < 0.05) as described by Duncan1955. All the results were the meaning of three replicates (n = 3). Moreover, correlations between seven treatments and the trait values related to the antioxidant defense system and carbohydrate and protein stock obtained in cut tulip flowers by heatmaps among parameters were derived using the ClustVis online tool (Metsalu and Vilo 2015 ). 3. Results 3.1. Vase Life. The vase life of tulip cut flowers in various applications of floral solutions is shown in Figures (2) and (5). Among the seven solutions analyzed, the standout performer was 30 mg L − 1 Cu-NPs, which achieved an impressive vase life of 15.56 and 16.33 days in the first and second seasons, respectively. Following was 7 mg L − 1 CHS-NPs, with a vase life of 13.01 and 14.00 days in the first and second seasons, respectively. Notably, the lower concentration of LG oil proved to be more effective in prolonging the vase life than its higher concentration in both seasons. These highlight the importance of selecting a well-preservation solution to maximize the longevity of cut tulip flowers. In contrast, the shortest vase life for cut flowers was observed in the control group and when using LG oil at a concentration of 300 mg L-1 during the first and second seasons, respectively. The vase life of a flower is a critical factor that indicates its overall quality often influencing consumer choices in the floral market. This study revealed that tulip cut flowers treated with Cu-NPs showed the longest vase life, highlighting the potential of this treatment to enhance floral longevity. 3.2. Relative fresh weight (RFW %). The impact of various concentrations of CHs-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on the relative fresh weight (RFW%) of tulip cut flowers is truly remarkable throughout their vase life. Our findings reveal that the RFW% of tulip flowers consistently increased until the fifth day across all treatments. Notably, on day 7, while RFW% declined for most treatments, the Cu-NPs at 30 mg L − 1 emerged as the most effective, followed closely by CHs-NPs at 7 mg L − 1 , then LG oil at 150 mg L − 1 (Fig. 3). This underscores the potential of these treatments to enhance the freshness of cut flowers. RFW% achieved an impressive 110.97 and 112.30% with 30 mg L − 1 of Cu-NPs on day 7 of the first and second seasons, respectively. In comparison, control flowers treated with distilled water only reached 69.78 and 72.47% in the first and second seasons, respectively. Also, the lowest RFW% was observed in control on all days. These results are like the vase life parameters mentioned above. This significant difference underscores the effectiveness of Cu-NPs in promoting flower quality. 3.3. Water relationship 3.3.1. Floral water uptake (g/ flower/ day). Floral water uptake demonstrated remarkable improvement throughout the vase life period. As illustrated in Figures (4) and (5), treatment of 30 mg L − 1 of Cu-NPs produced the most significant enhancement in floral water uptake on days 3, 5, and 7 across both seasons. Significantly, the control (distilled water) exhibited the lowest floral water uptake on all assessed days during the two seasons. Also, water uptake showed a significant boost until day five, followed by a lowering in all treatments, except for the CHS-NPs at 7 mg L − 1 , Cu-NPs at 30 mg L − 1 , and LG oil at 150 mg L − 1 . This indicates the superior effectiveness of these treatments in enhancing water uptake and ensuring optimal flower freshness and longevity. 3.3.2. Water loss (g/ flower/ day). The water loss levels of tulip cut flowers (Figs. 4 and 5) across 3, 5, and 7 days demonstrate a significant reduction with all treatments applied, particularly with CHS-NPs at 7 mg L − 1 , Cu-NPs at 30 mg L − 1 , and LG oil at 150 mg L − 1 when compared to the untreated flowers. The treatment of control exhibited the highest water loss, recording 35.10, 36.75, and 30.59 g/flower/day on days 3, 5, and 7 in the first season, respectively. In the second season, these figures were 30.12, 32.29, and 28.13 g/flower/day. This data strongly highlights the effectiveness of the treatments in promoting better water retention in tulip cut flowers. 3.4. Stomatal conductance (µmol H 2 O m − 2 s − 1 ) The data in Figure (6) illustrates a noteworthy change in stomatal conductance throughout the experiment across both seasons. Notably, the Cu-NPs treatment at 30 mg L⁻¹ and CHS-NPs at 7 mg L⁻¹ in the third, five, and seventh days produced the highest stomatal conductance in cut tulip leaves compared to other treatments. This finding underscores the critical role stomatal conductance plays in regulating gas diffusion. The enhanced gas exchange between leaves tissues and the atmosphere contributed to significant improvements in photosynthetic attributes, highlighting the potential of these treatments to optimize flower quality and their postharvest performance. 3.5. Total chlorophyll index (SPAD) The SPAD values demonstrated significant variations among the treatments applied to cut tulip leaves (Fig. 7). Total chlorophyll concentrations (SPAD) were notably higher in the Cu-NPs treatment at 30 mg L − 1 , followed closely by the CHS-NPs treatment at 7 mg L − 1 , outperforming the control application in both seasons. In contrast, the control (distilled water) and LG oil at 300 mg L − 1 treatments displayed substantially lower chlorophyll levels. Compared to the other treatments. This highlights that enhancing chlorophyll concentration is not just beneficial but essential for improving the CO 2 assimilation rate, ultimately contributing to healthier and more vibrant cut tulip foliage. 3.6. Total soluble carbohydrates % The total soluble carbohydrates measured in flowers treated with Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil are shown in Figure (8). Notably, the flowers exposed to Cu NPs at a concentration of 30 mg L − 1 achieved impressive carbohydrate levels of 18.66 and 20.21% across both seasons, surpassing all other treatments. Then, the flowers treated with CHS-NPs at 7 mg L − 1 showed carbohydrates of 17.70 and 18.65% in both seasons. These findings highlight the superior effectiveness of Cu or CHS as NPs in enhancing carbohydrate contents in the flower. Followed by the flowers treated with LG oil at 150 mg L − 1 contained 14.82 and 16.85% carbohydrates in the two respective seasons, which was lower than the carbohydrate content observed in other NPs treatments. In contrast, the control flowers, exposed to distilled water, exhibited the lowest carbohydrate levels, measuring 11.12% in the first and 13.37% in the second seasons. 3.7. Total soluble protein (g kg − 1 FW). The results emphasizing the total soluble protein content in tulip cut flowers treated with different preservative solutions, including Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil, are interestingly also presented in Figure (8). The treatment with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L − 1 produced the highest total soluble protein levels of 28.87 and 30.45 g kg − 1 FW in the first and second seasons, respectively. Displaying it is superior to other treatments. In contrast, the control cut flowers recorded the lowest protein levels at 14.81 and 18.81 g kg − 1 FW for the respective seasons. This data indicates that total soluble protein increased across all treatments in the experiment, reinforcing the effectiveness of these preservative solutions compared to the control. 3.8. Antioxidant defense system in cut Tulip flowers. 3.8.1. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes (Units mg − 1 protein). As shown in Fig. 9, the treatment of cut tulip flowers with a 30 mg L − 1 solution of Cu-NPs led to a significant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities compared to the control group using distilled water. This remarkable improvement highlights the beneficial impact of Cu-NPs on the vitality and overall health of the flowers. Notably, at this concentration, SOD levels showed a consistent upward trend throughout the experiment. Additionally, the individual shelf life of cut tulip flowers was affected by various treatments, including Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil solutions. The peak SOD activity reached impressive levels (1.77 and 1.92 Units mg − 1 protein) with the 30 mg L − 1 Cu-NPs in the first and second seasons, respectively. In contrast, the treatment of the control recorded significantly lower SOD activity levels (0.86 and 0.92 Units mg − 1 protein) during the same periods, respectively. This evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of Cu-NPs in prolonging life and enhancing the health of cut tulip flowers. 3.8.2. Catalase (CAT) enzymes (Units mg − 1 protein). Data regarding the effect of NPs as Cu and CHS, in addition to LG oil treatments on the CAT enzyme activity of cut tulip flowers, are presented in Figure (9). The data indicates highly significant differences among CAT enzyme activity in response to different Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil applications. Notably, the highest number of enzyme units of CAT was recorded when cut tulip flowers were placed in solutions with 30 mg L − 1 of Cu-NPs, followed by 7 mg L − 1 of CHS- NPs, and then 150 mg L − 1 of LG oil. The numbers of CAT enzyme units (2.82 and 2.98 Units mg − 1 protein, in the first and second seasons, respectively) in response to the highest levels of Cu-NPs (30 mg L − 1 ) were significantly higher than those of the controls (1.21 and 1.28 Units mg − 1 protein, in the first and second seasons, respectively), indicating a remarkable beneficial effect of Cu-NPs at this concentration. This evidence powerfully supports the usage of Cu-NPs to enhance CAT activity in cut tulips, promoting their longevity and vitality. 3.8.3. Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) content (µmol g − 1 FW). The effects of different concentrations of Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, or LG oil in floral solutions significantly influenced the hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) contents in cut tulip flowers, as illustrated in Figure (9). Throughout the experiment, H 2 O 2 levels consistently increased across on-cut tulip flowers in all treatments in both seasons. Importantly, the control cut flowers in distilled water exhibited the most substantial rise in H 2 O 2 during both seasons. In contrast, the lowest increase of H 2 O 2 was recorded in cut flowers supplemented with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L⁻¹ in the first and second seasons. Moreover, the highest recorded H 2 O 2 content reached 72.64 µmol g − 1 FW in the first season and 76.40 µmol g − 1 FW in the second season in the control (distilled water) application. This was closely followed by the high concentration of LG oil at 300 mg L⁻¹, which also displayed remarkable H 2 O 2 levels in both experimental seasons. These findings demonstrate the crucial role of selecting the appropriate floral solution to significantly improve the longevity and freshness of cut tulip flowers by effectively reducing H 2 O 2 levels. 3.8.4. Heatmap analysis of the antioxidant defense system, and total soluble carbohydrate and protein. In the heatmap shown in Figure (10), a strong positive correlation was observed between the traits of the antioxidant defense system and the levels of carbohydrates and proteins in cut tulip flowers under various floral solutions. In contrast, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) levels exhibited negative correlations with carbohydrate and protein levels, as well as with the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and CAT. This inverse relationship shows that higher oxidative stress markers (H₂O₂) correspond with lower carbohydrate and protein contents, and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, in cut tulip flowers treated with preservation solutions containing Cu-NPs at 30 mg L -1 , there was a significant increase in total soluble carbohydrates, protein levels, and the activities of CAT and SOD enzymes, and a reduction in H₂O₂ formation. Conversely, in the cut tulip flowers treated with control floral solutions, a decline in antioxidant capacity was observed, marked by decreased CAT and SOD enzyme activity, lower carbohydrate and protein levels, and a significant increase in H₂O₂ levels. These intricate correlations revealed complex interactions among physiological and biochemical processes in response to experimental treatments, providing key insights into the mechanism of stress tolerance and senescence regulation in the studied tulip flower systems. 3.9. Mean bacterial counts (CFU mL − 1 ). Figures (11) and (12) show the significant impact of various treatments on microbial populations in floral solutions during both seasons. Treatments including CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil solutions effectively reduce bacterial counts compared to the control solution (distilled water). Moreover, in the control solution, mean bacterial counts reached an unacceptable level of 10600 and 8,600 CFU mL − 1 in the first and second seasons, respectively. In contrast, the 30 mg L⁻¹ Cu-NPs treatment decisively reduced these counts to 200 and < 1 CFU mL − 1 in the first and second seasons, respectively. Furthermore, the 7 mg L⁻¹ CHS-NPs and 150 mg L⁻¹ LG oil solutions, also proved effective in significantly lowering bacterial levels throughout both seasons. These results unequivocally demonstrate the superiority of these treatments in combating microbial presence. Additionally, the images in Figure (12) decisively demonstrate the most significant effectiveness of 30 mg L⁻¹ Cu-NPs in suppressing bacterial growth in floral solutions, followed closely by 7 mg L⁻¹ CHS-NPs and then 150 mg L⁻¹ LG oil solutions. The 30 mg L⁻¹ Cu-NPs treatment unequivocally outperforms the control and all other tested options in halting microbial proliferation. This compelling evidence strongly demands the acceptance of these treatments to ensure notably more beneficial and vibrant floral solutions. 3.10. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Images from scanning electron microscopy (Fig. 13) indicated that the different concentrations studied of Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil positively influenced the vase life of cut tulip flowers compared to untreated (distilled water). The cross-section of xylem vessel cells in cut flowers treated with distilled water (control) showed significant bacterial accumulation, as illustrated in Fig. 13 (A and a). This bacterial blockage in the xylem leads to water stress, severely limiting the flowers' lifespan. As a result of this blockage, the cut flowers were unable to maintain their turgidity, which reduced the vase life of tulip cut flowers. In comparison, flowers treated with CHS-NPs (7 mg L − 1 ), Cu-NPs nanoparticles (30 mg L − 1 ), and LG oil (150 mg L − 1 ) demonstrated remarkably cleaner xylem vessels and a significant reduction in bacterial accumulation compared to the control. However, it is important to note that the development of bacterial growth and xylem obstructions at the stem end was only slightly diminished by the treatments with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L − 1 (Fig. 13, C and c) when evaluated against control and other treatments. Additionally, using Cu-NPs or CHS-NPs decreases microbial activity, and their ability to effectively inhibit bacterial growth and xylem obstructions at the stem end shows only marginal improvement over the control group and alternative options. 4. Discussion Tulips cut flowers are a key source of export income in the global floriculture market. Their variety of colors brightens homes and is important for ceremonies like weddings and funerals, symbolizing love, appreciation, and respect, making them critical to society (Nguyen and Lim 2021 ). It has a relatively short vase life, and its longevity is influenced by numerous factors related to preharvest, harvest, and postharvest practices (Ullah et al. 2022 ). Managing these factors is essential for maintaining freshness and quality in the floral industry. Floral preservative solutions are imported for longevity the vase life of cut flowers, and eco-friendly options offer a remarkable advantage. Utilizing low-cost and non-toxic alternatives as compared to chemical solutions (Kavosiv et al. 2013 ; Manzoor et al. 2022) such as nanoparticles and essential oils, not only prolongs the freshness of flowers but also promotes a healthier environment. Evidence shows that the longevity of cut flowers during the postharvest stage is influenced by maintaining optimal water relationships, supported by the powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of these innovative solutions (Gururani et al. 2023 ). Chitosan (CHS-NPs), copper (Cu-NPs) as nanoparticles, and lemongrass essential oil (LG) utilized in this study dramatically enhanced the vase life of tulip cut flowers. By promoting increased water uptake and boosting relative fresh weight (RFW%), these treatments also significantly reduce water loss compared to untreated flowers. The results of this study align with the findings of Rashidiani et al. ( 2020 ), who proved that Cu-NPs, when applied to a floral solution for cut carnations and chrysanthemums, effectively prevented chlorophyll degradation and extended the vase life. Additionally, cut roses treated with higher levels of Cu-NPs experienced increased vase life due to enhanced antioxidant activity, which helps prevent xylem blockage caused by microbial infections (Vahidi and Jafarpour, 2015 ). Furthermore, Cu-NPs improved the relative fresh weight and floral water uptake in cut roses (Amingad et al., 2017 ). Similarly, CHS-NPs significantly enhance the vase life of Rosa hybrid a plants by effectively reducing transpiration, controlling weight, and delaying ripening while safeguarding the environment from active chemicals (Seyed Hajizadeh et al., 2023 ). The shelf life of cut flowers is crucial for keeping quality. Bañuelos-Hernández et al. ( 2017 ) found that Heliconia bihai lasts up to 20 days with 1.0% CHS treatment, while 1.5% CHS shortens it to 15 days. Spricigo et al. ( 2021 ) also observed this trend in gerbera-cut flowers, emphasizing the importance of optimal concentration of CHS NPs for longevity. Also, El-Sayed et al. ( 2020 ) found that the use of CHS-NPs treatment enhanced floret opening and decreased weight loss in cut flowers. Their research also proved the impact of oxidative stress on these flowers, showing that the treatment helped keep photosynthetic pigments and water relations. Consequently, CHS-NPs are a highly promising eco-friendly solution for extending the vase life of cut flowers. Massoud et al. ( 2015 ) have convincingly shown that treating chrysanthemum cut flowers with a solution containing 25 mg L⁻¹ of LG oil can significantly prolong their vase life, enhance water uptake, and boost their relative fresh weight. Moreover, Thakur et al. ( 2013 ) revealed that adding LG oil to the maintenance of gladiolus cut flowers not only increases their vase life but also improves water absorption. This remarkable improvement is largely due to citral, an aldehyde in LG oil, which possesses potent antimicrobial properties that effectively suppress the growth of harmful bacteria (Peichel et al., 2019 ). Embracing these findings can elevate floral solutions to new heights. Our research highlights a crucial connection between key photosynthetic parameters such as the total chlorophyll index (SPAD), stomatal conductance, and the vase life of cut tulip flowers. These factors are essential for optimizing gas exchange and enhancing the photosynthesis process. Remarkably, our study demonstrates that the application of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil significantly boosts both photosynthetic capacity and stomatal conductance, effectively delaying petal senescence and prolonging the vase life of cut tulips. Notably, Cu-NPs at a high concentration of 30 mg L − 1 (T5) led to remarkable improvements in stomatal regulation and photosynthetic efficiency, by the increase in SPAD value. Recent research by Faraz et al. ( 2023 ) demonstrates that Cu-NPs enhance plant tissue by increasing total chlorophyll content (SPAD) and boosting the photosynthetic rate, which protects against aging. This improvement is crucial for maintaining chloroplast integrity, preventing oxidative damage, and promoting the biosynthesis of essential photosynthetic pigments, thanks to the protective role of Cu-NPs on chloroplast enzymes (Liu et al. 2024 ). In addition, Cu-NPs effectively inactivate the chlorophyllase enzyme, preventing chlorophyll degradation in chrysanthemums, and extending vase life to an impressive 12 days, compared to just four days for untreated flowers (Hashemabadi et al., 2013 ). Similar benefits have been recorded in cut Rosa hybrida (Seyed Hajizadeh et al., 2023 ), as well as in cut carnation and chrysanthemum flowers (Rashidiani et al., 2020 ). A similar trend was observed for stomatal conductance, in which Cu-NPs significantly impact photosystem II (PSII), boost the levels of photosynthetic pigments, and improve the ability to assimilate CO 2 , which directly correlates with increased stomatal conductance, photosynthesis rate, and water content in Cut Narcissus flowers (Dalda Şekerci et al. 2024 ). Furthermore, Cu-NPs can attach to or penetrate cell surfaces through pores and lenticels, increasing stomatal conductance, enhancing gas exchange, and further optimizing photosynthesis (Nekoukhou et al. 2024). In this study, the use of NPs and LG oil led to increases in total soluble carbohydrate and protein of cut tulip leaves compared to the control which gave the lowest values during both seasons (Fig. 8). Soluble carbohydrates serve as the essential energy source to cut flowers, making them crucial for flower quality because they enhance petal growth, coloration, and longevity while preventing protein degradation, a decline in these carbohydrates can accelerate aging in flowers (Chen et al., 2021 ). Similarly, Soluble proteins are vital for extending the vase life of flowers. Research by Hassan and Ali ( 2014 ) highlights that higher protein content in cut gladiolus can significantly enhance postharvest longevity because petal senescence is associated with the loss of proteins, which compromises membrane protein integrity and function. Our experiment showed that treating cut tulips with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L − 1 (T5), CHS-NPs at 7mg L − 1 (T3), or LG oil at 150 mg L − 1 (T6) enhances water uptake, Photosynthesis, and sugar translocation, then leads to better resource accumulation and increased turgor pressure, which delays flower senescence. These positive effects have been confirmed in chrysanthemum (Hashemabadi et al. 2013 ), Rosa hybrida (Seyed Hajizadeh et al. 2023 ), and Gladiolus flowers (Thakur et al. 2013 ), highlighting the potential of these treatments to improve floral longevity. Also, the results illustrated in Figure (9) indicate that cut flowers placed in a vase solution with 30 mg L − 1 CU-NPs or 7.5 mg L − 1 CHS-NPs experienced a significant increase in SOD and CAT levels. In stark contrast, cut flowers placed in distilled water, which served as untreated control, exhibited a notable rise in H 2 O 2 content compared to the other treatments shown in Figure (9) and heat map analysis in Figure (10). These findings suggest that the right nanomaterial can enhance the flowers' protective enzyme levels, promoting their overall health and longevity. For instance, Sutulienė et al. ( 2022 ) found that treated plants with Cu-NPs at 12.5 ppm led to notable improvements in the antioxidant system and ROS-scavenging enzyme activity, as well as reduced oxidative stress indicators such as lipid peroxidation and peroxide levels, compared to untreated plants. Similarly, Adhikari et al. ( 2016 ) reported that Cu-NPs enhanced the production of key antioxidant enzymes, including SOD and POD, resulting in overall higher antioxidant levels. Cu-NPs are essential catalytic centers in plant cellular metabolism. They enhance resistance and defense by boosting antioxidant enzymes like SOD, which converts harmful superoxide anions into H 2 O 2 . Then, CAT transforms H 2 O 2 into oxygen (O 2 ) and water (H 2 O). This process improves chlorophyll content, increases Rubisco activity, and promotes carbohydrate accumulation (Wu et al., 2018 ). In addition, CHS-NPs are distinguished by their unique physical and chemical properties, offering exceptional tensile strength, conductivity, elasticity, and chemical reactivity due to their amine and -OH groups, which enhance water relations (Spricigo et al., 2021 ). Research by El-Sayed et al. ( 2020 ) and Hassan et al. ( 2021 ) highlights their crucial role in carbohydrate activity for reducing H 2 O 2 and malondialdehyde levels while mitigating oxidative stress and delaying senescence. Also, as a bioactive material, CHS increases total phenol and sugar contents and boosts antioxidant capacity, helping to counteract oxidative stress following flower harvest (Hong-Juan and Huan-Qing 2015 ). Furthermore, Petriccione et al. ( 2018 ) found that CHS-NPs enhance enzymatic antioxidants and scavenge H 2 O 2 , improving membrane integrity and significantly enhancing the postharvest quality of loquats. In the current research, tulip cut flowers treated with high concentrations of NPs (T3) and (T5) showed a significant reduction in bacterial counts compared to the control (distilled water), which compelling results explained in Figures (11), (12), and (13), highlighting the effectiveness of these treatments in improving flower longevity. Likewise, Rashidiani et al. ( 2020 ) conducted a study on the use of Cu-NPs at a high concentration of 20 mg L − 1 to enhance the longevity of carnation and chrysanthemum cut flowers, their the findings indicated significant improvements in RFW%, vase solution uptake, membrane stability index, and total soluble carbohydrates, with a notable reduction in both the bacterial population at the stem end and H 2 O 2 levels. Vahidi et al. (2013) and Esfahani et al. ( 2013 ) also demonstrated that increasing the concentration of Cu-NPs had a positive impact on the vase life of cut roses, which is the enhancement attributed to the elevated activity of antioxidant enzymes, particularly SOD and CAT, which effectively prevent xylem blockage. Adding Cu-NPs to vases helps flowers last longer by slowly releasing Cu²⁺ ions into the water, and this gradual release keeps harmful bacteria away for a long time during the vase's life (Rashidiani et al., 2020 ). Cu²⁺ ions are control over enzymes that prevent blockages caused by wounds and slow down the actions of SOD and catalase CAT enzymes (Al-Hakkani, 2020 ). This process reduces the risk of blockages in the xylem at the ends of the flower stems, enhancing the cut flower's overall longevity and appearance. Additionally, it interacts with biomolecules such as DNA and proteins for disruption of biochemical processes of bacterial, and destruction of the plasma membrane integrity of their cells by the creation of ROS, plus changes in the expression of some apoptosis genes that cause bacterial cell death (Sun et al. 2012 ). As for CHS-NPs, Spricigo et al. ( 2021 ) provide compelling evidence that a solution containing CHS-NPs was superior in preventing stem bending by effectively controlling microbial growth, significantly inhibiting molds and yeasts on cut gerbera flowers, outperforming alternative solutions. Furthermore, Seyed Hajizadeh et al. ( 2023 ) demonstrated that cut roses placed in a preservative solution with CHS-NPs at 5–10 mg L − 1 achieved a maximum vase life of 15 days while diminishing microbial growth compared to control solutions. CHs-NPs also benefit from the extended vase life of cut carnations compared to CHS and untreated floral due to their broad antimicrobial activity against fungal pathogens (Solgi 2018 ). However, bulk CHS solubility limitations reduce its effectiveness, while CHS-NPs offer significant advantages by enhancing key properties (Iriti and Varoni 2015 ). Chitosan (CHS) is a safe, biocompatible, renewable, and biodegradable material renowned for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. These benefits stem from its degree of deacetylation (DDA), which involves removing acetyl groups from chitin and adding reactive amino groups (El Ghaouth et al., 1997 ). This process can enhance cell rupture, disrupt membrane permeability, inhibit bacterial DNA replication, and cause cell death (Dehnad et al., 2014 ). Thus, the nano-chitosan solution reduced bacteria activity by successfully interacting with vase microflora. 5. Conclusion This study compellingly highlights the exceptional potential of chitosan and copper nanoparticles as antioxidants and antimicrobial components in preservative solutions for cut flowers. When applied to cut tulips, a solution containing copper nanoparticles (30 mg L − 1 ) or chitosan nanoparticles (7 mg L − 1 ) remarkably stabilizes water balance within the stems, enhances their relative fresh weight, and avoids their curvature. Moreover, these treatments effectively inhibit microbial proliferation at the stem base, significantly reducing the risk of bacterial blockages in the xylem for up to seven days. This not only preserves the quality of the solution longer but also ensures optimal conditions for water absorption in the floral stems' conducting vessels. Additionally, the nanoparticles significantly raise chlorophyll levels, total soluble carbohydrates, and proteins while decreasing hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) production and boosting antioxidant enzyme activity, thus enhancing membrane stability. In summary, utilizing chitosan or copper as nanoparticles in preservative solutions dramatically enhances the vase life of cut tulips, with copper nanoparticles proving to be particularly effective. This innovative approach offers a promising alternative with exceptional antimicrobial properties, that can reduce agrochemical inputs into the environment, making it an ideal solution for effectively preserving cut flowers and extending their shelf life. Additionally, it supports the sustainability of the floriculture industry. Declarations Author contribution: EZO performed the experimental work, RAE conducted formal data analysis and interpretation, EZO and IME designed and supervised the study, IME and RAE wrote the original draft preparation, and EMO wrote the review and editing. All authors have read and agreed to the final version of the manuscript. Acknowledgments: We would like to thank the staff at both the Cairo University Ornamental Department and the Ornamental Plants and Woody Trees National Research Centre, for their invaluable technical support and for supplying all facilities during the experiments. Funding: The authors declare that they don't receive any funds, grants, or other forms of support while preparing this manuscript. Conflict of interest: The authors declare they have no conflict of interest, and the authors confirm that this study is original and not under review by another journal. Ethical approval: This article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors “not applicable”. References Adhikari T, Sarkar D, Mashayekhi H, Xing B (2016) Growth and enzymatic activity of maize (Zea mays L.) plant: solution culture test for copper dioxide nanoparticles. J Plant Nutr 39:99–115. https://doi.org/10.1080/01904167.2015.1044012 Ahmad I, Dole JM (2014) Homemade floral preservatives affect postharvest performance of selected specialty cut flowers. HortTechnol 24:384–393. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH.24.3.384 Ahmad A, Rashid H, Sajjad R, Mubeen S, Ajmal B, Khan MA (2014) Enhancing the vase life of tulip (Tulipa gesneriana L.) using various pulsing solutions of humic acid and npk. Int J Plant Anim Environ Sci 4:193–200 Alexieva V, Sergiev I, Mapelli S, Karanov E (2001) The effect of drought and ultraviolet radiation on growth and stress markers in pea and wheat. Plant Cell Environ 24:1337–1344. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-3040.2001.00778.x Al-Hakkani MF (2020) Biogenic copper nanoparticles and their applications: A review. SN Appl Sci 2:505. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42452-020-2279-1 Ali EF, Issa AA, Al-Yasi HM, Hessini K, Hassan FAS (2022) The Efficacies of 1-Methylcyclopropene and Chitosan Nanoparticles in Preserving the Postharvest Quality of Damask Rose and Their Underlying Biochemical and Physiological Mechanisms. Biology 11:242. https://doi.org/10.3390/biology11020242 Amingad V, Sreenivas KN, Fakrudin B, Seetharamu GK, Shankarappa TH, Venugopalan R (2017) Comparison of silver nanoparticles and other metal nanoparticles on postharvest attributes and bacterial load in cut roses var. Taj Mahal. Int J Pure App Biosci 5:579–584. https://doi.org/10.18782/2320- 7051.2610 Anjum MA, Naveed F, Shakeel F, Amin S (2001) Effect of some chemicals on keeping quality and vase-life of tuberose ( Polianthes tuberosa L.) cut flowers. Life 12:23–65 Armitage AM, Laushman JM (2003) Specialty cut flowers, 2nd edn. Timber Press Portland, OR, USA Bañuelos-Hernández KP, García-Nava JR, Leyva-Ovalle OR, Peña-Valdivia CB, Trejo C, Ybarra-Moncada MC (2017) Chitosan coating effect on vase life of flowering stems of Heliconia bihai (L.) L. cv. Halloween. Postharvest Biol Technol 132:179–187. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.postharvbio.2017.05.009 Benschop M, Kamenetsky R, Le Nard M, Okubo H, De Hertogh A (2016) The global flower bulb industry: Production, utilization, research. Hortic Rev 36:1–115 Bozzola JJ, Russell LD (1999) Electron Microscopy: Principles and Techniques for Biologists, 2nd edn. Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc., Boston, USA Bradford MM (1976) A rapid and sensitive method for the quantitation of microgram quantities of protein utilizing the principle of protein-dye binding. Anal Biochemist 72:248–254. https://doi.org/10.1016/0003-2697(76)90527-3 Cakmak I, Marschner H (1992) Magnesium Deficiency and High Light Intensity Enhance Activities of Superoxide Dismutase, Ascorbate Peroxidase, and Glutathione Reductase in Bean Leaves. Plant Physiol 98:1222–1227. https://doi.org/10.1104/pp.98.4.1222 Chen C, Chen H, Ni M, Yu F (2021) A study on petal morphological and physiological characteristics of Styrax japonicus during the flowering period. J Agron 11:1498. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11081498 Crisan MC, Teodora M, Lucian M (2022) Copper Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Characterization, Physiology, Toxicity and Antimicrobial Applications. Appl Sci 12:141. https://doi.org/10.3390/app12010141 Dalda Şekerci A, Barut G, Özdal HS, Ünsal HT (2024) The Effects of Silver and Copper Nano Particle-Infused Vase Solutions on the Vase Life of Cut Narcissus (Narcissus L.) Flowers. Çukurova J Agric Food Sci 39:231–240 Dehnad D, Emam-Djomeh Z, Mirzaei H, Jafari SM, Dadashi S (2014) Optimization of physical and mechanical properties for chitosan–nanocellulose biocomposites. Carbohydr Poly 105:222–228. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.01.094 Duncan DB (1955) Multiple ranges and multiple F. test. Biometrics 11:1–42. https://doi.org/10.2307/3001478 Dutta J, Dutta PK (2010) 15 antimicrobial activity of chitin, Chitosan, and their oligosaccharides. Chitin, chitosan, oligosaccharides their Deriv. Biol Act Appl 14:195 El Ghaouth A, Arul J, Wilson C, Benhamou N (1997) Biochemical and cytochemical aspects of the interactions of chitosan and Botrytis cinerea in bell pepper fruit. Postharvest Biol Technol 12:183–194. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0925-5214(97)00056-2 Elhindi KM (2012) Evaluation of several holding solutions for prolonging vase-life and keeping quality of cut sweet pea flowers ( Lathyrus odoratus L). Saudi J Biol Sci 19:195–202. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2011.12.001 El-Sayed IM, El-Ziat RA (2021) Utilization of environmentally friendly essential oils on enhancing the postharvest characteristics of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat cut flowers. Heliyon 7:e05909. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e05909 El-Sayed IM, Salim RG, El-Haggar EF, El-Ziat RA, Soliman DM (2020) Molecular Characterization and Positive Impact of Brassinosteroids and Chitosan on Solidago canadensis cv. Tara Characteristics Horticulturae 6:100. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae6040100 Esfahani MB, Pour MJ, Mortazaeinezhad F, Saeed SE (2013) The effect of nano copper, nanosilver and sucrose on vase life of cut rose Dolcevita’. Inter J Agri Crop Sci 5:36–38 Etheredge CL, Waliczek TM, DelPrince J (2024) Comparison of United States Consumers’ Perceptions and Willingness to Pay for Sustainable Environmental Practices in the Retail Floral Industry Based on Geographical Regions. HortTechnol 34:241–251. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05392-24 Faraz A, Faizan M, Rajput VD, Minkina T, Hayat S, Faisal M, Alatar AA, Abdel-Salam EM (2023) CuO Nanoparticle-Mediated Seed Priming Improves Physio-Biochemical and Enzymatic Activities of Brassica juncea . Plants 12:803. https://doi.org/doi:10.3390/plants12040803 Giannopolitis CN, Ries SK (1977) Superoxide dismutase occurrence in higher plants. Plant Physiol 59:309–314. https://doi.org/10.1104/pp.59.2.309 Gururani MA, Atteya AK, Elhakem A, El-Sheshtawy ANA, El-Serafy RS (2023) Essential oils prolonged the cut carnation longevity by limiting the xylem blockage and enhancing the physiological and biochemical levels. PLoS ONE 3:e0281717. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281717 Hashemabadi D, Kaviani B, Shirinpour A, Zahiri S (2013) Effects of copper nanoparticles (CNPs) on vase life of cut flowers chrysanthemum ( Chrysanthemum morifolium L.‘White’). Eur J Exp Biol 3:153–155 Hassan FAS, Ali EF (2014) Protective effects of 1-methylcyclopropene and salicylic acid on senescence regulation of gladiolus cut spikes. Sci Hort 179:146–152. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2014.09.025 Hassan FAS, Ali EF, Mostafa NY, Mazrou R (2021) Shelf-life extension of sweet basil leaves by edible coating with thyme volatile oil encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles. Int J Biol Macromol 177:517–525. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.02.159 Hong-Juan J, Huan-Qing L (2015) Chitooligosaccharide prolongs vase life of cut roses by decreasing reactive oxygen species. Korean J Hortic Sci Technol 33:383–389. https://doi.org/10.7235/hort.2015.14188 Irigoyen JJ, Einerich DW, Sánchez-Díaz M (1992) Water stress induced changes in concentrations of proline and total soluble sugars in nodulated alfalfa ( Medicago sativa ) plants. Physiol Plant 84:55–60. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1399-3054.1992.tb08764.x Iriti M, Varoni EM (2015) Chitosan-induced antiviral activity and innate immunity in plants. Environ Sci Pollut Res 22:2935–2944. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-014-3571-7 Iwaya-Inoue M, Tataka M (2001) Trehalose plus chloramphenicol prolong the vase life of tulip flowers. HortSci 36:946–950. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.36.5.946 Jahnke NJ, Kalinowski J, Dole JM (2022) Postharvest Handling Techniques for Long-term Storage of Cut Tulip and Dutch Iris. HortTechnol 32:263–274. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05010-21 Joyce DC, Jones PN (1992) Water balance of the foliage of cut Geraldton waxflower. Postharvest Biol Technol 2:31–39. https://doi.org/10.1016/0925-5214(92)90025-K Kavosiv M, Mirzakhani A, Hakimi L (2013) Influences of Thyme oil ( Thymus vulgaris L.), Aloe vera gel and some chemical substances on vase-life of cut Rosa hybrida cv. White naomi. Int J Agron Plant Prod 4:970–975 Khairy AM, Tohamy MR, Zayed MA, Mahmoud SF, El-Tahan AM, El-Saadony MT, Mesiha PK (2022) Eco-friendly application of nano-chitosan for controlling potato and tomato bacterial wilt. Saudi J Biol Sci 29:2199–2209. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.11.041 Khan W, Prithviraj B, Smith DL (2003) Photosynthetic responses of corn and soybean to foliar application of salicylates. J Plant Physiol 160:485–492. https://doi.org/10.1078/0176-1617-00865 Khatri D, Panigrahi J, Prajapati A, Bariya H (2020) Attributes of Aloe vera gel and chitosan treatments on the quality and biochemical traits of post-harvest tomatoes. Sci Hort 259:108837. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2019.108837 Liu A, Xiao W, Lai W, Wang J, Li X, Yu H, Zha Y (2024) Potential Application of Selenium and Copper Nanoparticles in Improving Growth, Quality, and Physiological Characteristics of Strawberry under Drought Stress. Agriculture 14:1172. https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071172 Lü P, Huang X, Li H, Liu J, He S, Joyce DC, Zhang Z (2011) Continuous Automatic Measurement of Water Uptake and Water Loss of Cut Flower Stems. Hortsci 46:509–512. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.46.3.509 Manzoor A, Bashir MA, Hashmi MM (2020) Nanoparticles as a preservative solution can enhance postharvest attributes of cut flowers. Italus Hortus 27:1–14. https://doi.org/10.26353/j.itahort/2020.2.0114 Marasek-Ciolakowska A, Sochacki D, Marciniak P (2021) Breeding Aspects of Selected Ornamental Bulbous Crops. Agronomy 11:1709. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11091709 Marousky FJ (1970) Conditioning gladiolus spikes to maintenance of fresh weight with pre-treatments of 8-hydroxy-quinoline citrate plus sucrose. Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society 82: 411–414 Massoud HYA, Kassem MM, Farag NBB (2015) Effect of some essential oils on cut flowers of chrysanthemum ( Dendranthema Grandiflorum Ram.) Cv.Flyer. J Plant Prod 6:563–574. https://doi.org/10.21608/jpp.2015.49581 Metsalu T, Vilo J (2015) ClustVis: A web tool for visualizing clustering of multivariate data using Principal Component Analysis and heatmap. Nucleic Acids Res 43:W566–W570. https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkv468 Moussa MM, Mazrou RM, Hassan FAS (2024) How Sage and Rosemary Essential Oils Regulate Postharvest Senescence and Extend the Vase Life of Cut Gladiolus Spikes. Horticulturae 10:638. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060638 Mutlu-Ingok A, Devecioglu D, Dikmetas DN, Karbancioglu-Guler F, Capanoglu E (2020) Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antimycotoxigenic, and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oils: An Updated Review. Molecules 25:4711. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25204711 Nekoukhou M, Fallah S, Pokhrel LR, Abbasi-Surki A, Rostamnejadi A (2023) Foliar enrichment of copper oxide nanoparticles promotes biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and commercially valuable secondary metabolites and essential oils in dragonhead ( Dracocephalum moldavica L.) under semi-arid conditions. Sci Total Environ 863:160920. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160920 Nguyen TK, Lim JH (2021) Do Eco-Friendly Floral Preservative Solutions Prolong Vase Life Better than Chemical Solutions? Horticulturae 7:415. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae7100415 Othman EZ, Esmail SEA (2020) Enhancing vase life of Helianthus annuus L. cut flowers using salicylic acid and dill essential oil. Middle East J Agri Res 9:1045–1056. https://doi.org/10.36632/mejar/2020.9.4.81 Peichel C, Nair DVT, Dewi G, Donoghue AM, Reed KM, Kollanoor JA (2019) Effect of Lemongrass ( Cymbopogon citratus ) Essential Oil on the Survival of Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg in Contaminated Poultry Drinking Water. J Appl Poult Res 28:1121–1130. https://doi.org/10.3382/japr/pfz076 Petriccione M, Pagano L, Forniti R, Zampella L, Mastrobuoni F, Scortichini M, Mencarelli F (2018) Postharvest treatment with chitosan affects the antioxidant metabolism and quality of wine grape during partial dehydration. Postharvest Biol Technol 137:38–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.postharvbio.2017.11.010 Rashidiani N, Nazari F, Javadi T, Samadi S (2020) Comparative postharvest responses of carnation and chrysanthemum to synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Adv Hort Sci 34:133–145. https://doi.org/10.13128/ahsc-7491 Schweitzer B, Balázs VL, Molnár S, Szögi-Tatár B, Böszörményi A, Palkovics T, Horváth G, Schneider G (2022) Antibacterial Effect of Lemongrass ( Cymbopogon citratus ) against the Aetiological Agents of Pitted Keratolyis. Molecules 27:1423. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27041423 Seyed Hajizadeh H, Dadashzadeh R, Azizi S, Reza Mahdavinia G, Kaya O (2023) Effect of Chitosan nanoparticles on quality indices, metabolites, and vase life of Rosa hybrida cv. Black magic. Chem Biol Technol Agric 10:12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40538-023-00387-7 SeyedHajizadeh H, FarajiChelanolya A, Zahedi SM, Moghadam A, Mahdavinia G, Kaya O (2024) Nanochitosan-encapsulated melatonin: an eco-friendly strategy to delay petal senescence in cut gerbera flowers. BMC Plant Biol 24:1024. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-024-05725-x Sharma P, Bhargava B, Sangmesh P, Ujala (2022) Agro-Biodiversity: Conservation and Use of Plant Genetic Resources. In: Datta SK, Gupta YC (eds) Floriculture and Ornamental Plants. Handbooks of Crop Diversity: Conservation and Use of Plant Genetic Resources. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-3518-5_9 Skutnik E, Rabiza-Świder J, Jędrzejuk A, Łukaszewska A (2020) The Effect of the Long-Term Cold Storage and Preservatives on Senescence of Cut Herbaceous Peony Flowers. Agronomy 10:1631. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10111631 Sochacki D, Treder J (2017) A Survey of viruses’ occurrence in Polish and imported tulip bulbs. Acta Scientiarum Polonorum Hortorum Cultus 16:105–112 Solgi M (2018) The application of new environmentally friendly compounds on postharvest characteristics of cut carnation ( Dianthus caryophyllus L). Rev Bras Bot 41:515–522. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40415-018-0464-x Song J, Li Y, Hu J, Lee J, Jeong BR (2021) Pre- and/or Postharvest Silicon Application Prolongs the Vase Life and Enhances the Quality of Cut Peony ( Paeonia lactiflora Pall). Flowers Plants 10:1742. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10081742 Spricigo PC, Pilon L, Trento JP, de Moura MR, Bonfim KS, Mitsuyuki MC, Mattoso LHC, Ferreira MD (2021) Nano-chitosan as an antimicrobial agent in preservative solutions for cut flowers. J Chem Technol Biotechnol (JCTB) 96:2168–2175. https://doi.org/10.1002/jctb.6766 Sun T, Yan Y, Zhao Y, Guo F, Jiang C (2012) Copper oxide nanoparticles induce autophagic cell death in A549 cells. PLoS ONE 7:e43442. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0043442 Sutulienė R, Ragelienė L, Duchovskis P, Miliauskienė J (2022) The Effects of Nano-copper, -molybdenum, -boron, and -silica on Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Growth, Antioxidant Properties, and Mineral Uptake. J Soil Sci Plant Nutr 22:801–814. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42729-021-00692-w Tayal R, Kumar V, Irfan M (2021) Harnessing the power of hydrogen sulphide (H 2 S) for improving fruit quality traits. Plant Biol 24:594–601. https://doi.org/10.1111/plb.13372 Teerarak M, Pilasombut K, Laosinwattana C (2024) Peppermint essential oil enhances the vase life of Dendrobium orchids. Heliyon 10:e31636. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31636 Thakur M, Verma V, Chandel A, Kumar R, Sharma T, Kumar A, Bhardwaj S, Kumar R, Bhargava B (2013) Lemon grass essential oil improves Gladiolus grandiflorus postharvest life by modulating water relations, microbial growth, biochemical activity, and gene expression. Sci Rep 13:2630. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-28829-0 Ullah MJ, Bashir M, Gul H, Shahzad A, Shahzad M (2022) Use of Citric Acid and Iron Sulfate in Promoting Post-Harvest Longevity of Cut Tulips (Tulipa Gesneriana L. Cv. Marylin) in Vase Solutions. Contemp Agri 71:57–64. https://doi.org/10.2478/contagri-2022-0009 Vahidi P, Jafarpour M (2015) Effects of Herbal Essences and Nano-technology on Enzyme Activity of Cut Rose Flowers Cultivar ‘Black Majic’. Specialty J Biol Sci 1:14–18 Wu H, Shabala L, Shabala S, Giraldo JP (2018) Hydroxyl radical scavenging by cerium oxide nanoparticles improves Arabidopsis salinity tolerance by enhancing leaf mesophyll potassium retention. Environ Sci Nano 5:1567–1583. https://doi.org/10.1039/C8EN00323H Yaquby AM, Ahmadi BA, Ashkar SB (2022) Effects of Plant Growth Regulators on Quality, Quantity and Vase-life of Rose flower ( Rosa hybrida cv. Avalanche). J Humanit Social Sci Stud 4:206–212. https://doi.org/10.32996/jhsss.2022.4.3.20 Zafar A, Ahmad I, Ahmad A, Ahmad M (2016) Copper (II) oxide nanoparticles augment antifilarial activity of Albendazole: In vitro synergistic apoptotic impact against filarial parasite Setaria cervi . Int J Pharma 50:49–64. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.01.059 Zahedi SM, Karimi M, Da Silva JAT (2020) The use of nanotechnology to increase quality and yield of fruit crops. J Sci Food Agri 100:25–31. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.10004 Additional Declarations The authors declare no competing interests. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-5976331","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":412274693,"identity":"678cb053-eea0-446a-be5b-3ac94fd9e166","order_by":0,"name":"Eman Z. Othman","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA5klEQVRIiWNgGAWjYBADAwb2BhDNTIoWngMka5FIIFILv9jhZw8Y/tgZG9x8/EyCocI6sYG9/QJeLZKz08yBjko2M7idZibBcCY9sYHnTAF+B91OAKqUYLYxuJ3DJsHYdjixQSInAa8W+9vp3yQYDOptDG6eAWr5B9Qi/wa/FgPpHKAtCYfNDG7wALU0gGxhP4BXi8TtnDKJhAPHjSXPpBlbJBxLN27jycGrg4F/dvo2iQ9/qg37jh9+eONDjbVsP/vxB/j1gADI7QoHoAw2Bh4DwlpAQL4BzmQnwpZRMApGwSgYSQAAP6ZCjIc1EEcAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5915-7887","institution":"Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Eman","middleName":"Z.","lastName":"Othman","suffix":""},{"id":412274757,"identity":"06814d20-09cb-44b7-bcbf-66664a8b3500","order_by":1,"name":"Rasha A. El-Ziat","email":"","orcid":"https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7416-5567","institution":"Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Rasha","middleName":"A.","lastName":"El-Ziat","suffix":""},{"id":412274787,"identity":"310ae4fd-d470-4b04-8350-b05579be629f","order_by":2,"name":"Iman M. El-Sayed2","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"National Research Centre (NRC)","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Iman","middleName":"M.","lastName":"El-Sayed2","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-02-06 21:15:39","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":{"humanSubjects":false,"vertebrateSubjects":false,"conflictsOfInterestStatement":false,"humanSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false,"humanSubjectConsent":false,"humanSubjectClinicalTrial":false,"humanSubjectCaseReport":false,"vertebrateSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false},"doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5976331/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5976331/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":75879450,"identity":"7a85fbbd-7d30-4da5-9956-cc66afe4b2a0","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":3990047,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eTransmission electron microscopic image of chitosan nanoparticles (CHS-NPs) ranging from 2.0–100 nm (A, B), and copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) at 100 nm and 0.5 nm (C, D).\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/41643bfd0a659d7dcd51c07a.png"},{"id":75879448,"identity":"86f6a3cc-edbc-41e2-a763-d2898aafa0ad","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":798056,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eIllustrates the significant impact of varying concentrations of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on enhancing the vase life of cut tulips over two seasons. Each column presents the mean ±6 cut tulip flowers from one treatment, analyzed using Duncan's multiple range test at a significance level of \u003cem\u003ep \u0026lt; 0.05\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/6cf76b2d0898030d2e1ffa1f.png"},{"id":75879463,"identity":"4547e33b-0ca8-4163-baea-7b5e157fa321","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":186597,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eIllustrates the significant impact of varying concentrations of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on enhancing the Relative fresh weight (RFW %) of cut tulips over two seasons. Each column presents the mean ±6 cut tulip from one treatment, analyzed using Duncan's multiple range test at a significance level of \u003cem\u003ep \u0026lt; 0.05\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image3.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/bd5302f017187f766aaf33e1.png"},{"id":75879824,"identity":"babefa97-7502-4a67-b743-413bc1c596ed","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:20:19","extension":"png","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":720950,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003ehighlights the significant effects of varying the concentrations of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on floral water uptake and water loss in cut tulips over two seasons. Each column shows the mean ±6 tulips from one treatment, analyzed using Duncan's multiple range test at \u003cem\u003ep \u0026lt; 0.05\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image4.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/59241f6b57b61e9509138eb1.png"},{"id":75879456,"identity":"e5f9eeb5-2e4b-42f3-9f6c-d34f3d530cca","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":2705325,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e-(a) schematic of water relationship in tulip cut flowers, -(b) stem ends of tulip cut flowers in different concentrations of Cu-NPS, CHS-NPs, and LG at 7 days, -(c) impact of optimal level of Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil on the vase life of cut tulip during 3,5, and 7 days.T1: control, T2: 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e CHS-NPs, T3: 15 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e CHS-NPs, T4: 15 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003eCu-NPs, T5: 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003eCu- NPs, T6:150 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e LG oil, T7: 300 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e LG oil.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image5.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/787a70fb459935966c34cb33.png"},{"id":75879452,"identity":"e10e3f14-e343-491f-bf4f-58cfb961fdcb","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":105772,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eShows the significant impact of varying concentrations of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on enhancing the stomatal conductance of cut tulips over two seasons. Each column presents the mean ±6 cut tulip from one treatment, analyzed using Duncan's multiple range test at a significance level of \u003cem\u003ep \u0026lt; 0.05\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image6.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/63d14df2a555073f18a08bba.png"},{"id":75879454,"identity":"a1400d7d-461b-4b52-b61f-4b811411dbc2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":7,"title":"Figure 7","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":164338,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eIllustrates the significant impact of varying CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on enhancing the total chlorophyll index (SPAD) in cut tulips over two seasons. Each column presents the mean ±6 cut tulip from one treatment, analyzed using Duncan's multiple range test at a significance level of p \u003cem\u003e\u0026lt; 0.05\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image7.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/3c887f55bf5a06dfee24cd25.png"},{"id":75879836,"identity":"2bea837f-722e-46ae-87df-7f5b8ba4c1d6","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:20:19","extension":"png","order_by":8,"title":"Figure 8","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":774526,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eShows the significant effects of varying CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on the total soluble carbohydrates and protein content in cut tulips over two seasons. Each column represents the mean ± 6 cut tulips per treatment, assessed using Duncan's multiple range test at \u003cem\u003ep \u0026lt; 0.05\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image8.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/abdbcf25d90227d81b72c60e.png"},{"id":75881260,"identity":"bace932b-cb64-47ff-b9e4-6183db306615","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:36:19","extension":"png","order_by":9,"title":"Figure 9","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":1047712,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eShows the significant effects of varying CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on the Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) enzymes activity, as well as Hydrogen peroxide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e) contents in cut tulips over two seasons. Each column represents the mean ± 6 cut tulips per treatment, assessed using Duncan's multiple range test at \u003cem\u003ep \u0026lt; 0.05.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image9.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/7a48d4b911576c97acf5d6b8.png"},{"id":75879835,"identity":"715fdc14-8b96-43e8-9971-3cca2bf25496","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:20:19","extension":"png","order_by":10,"title":"Figure 10","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":66054,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eThe heatmap Pearson correlation of antioxidant defense system, total soluble carbohydrate, and protein stock traits in cut tulip flowers that were affected by an interaction effect between different concentrations of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, or LG oil in floral solutions, along with the control (distilled water) across experimental conditions. The first column shows the seven treatments A: Control (distilled water); B: CHS-NPs (3.5 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), C: CHS-NPs (7 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), D: Cu- NPs (15 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), E: Cu-NPs (30 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), F: LG oil (150 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), G: LG oil (300 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e). The mean data weighed in -1.5 to 1.5 values of traits [highest (1.5) and lowest (-1.5)]. Also, the color gradient represents the strength and direction of the correlations, Dark Red indicates a low-intensity value of some traits studied, in addition, light red and white indicate a high-intensity value of these traits.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image10.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/e66fc7a3a3643f6b8b6ba794.png"},{"id":75882793,"identity":"0ef94334-0433-44de-bd53-49b850ae96e8","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:44:24","extension":"png","order_by":11,"title":"Figure 11","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":37711,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eBacterial counts (CFU m L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e) in floral solutions used for 7-day postharvest of tulip cut flowers. Values are the means of six cut flowers.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image11.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/63e53eca2eb440a3dc4de05b.png"},{"id":75879465,"identity":"72146961-61d0-4d84-a322-a1ba758f1970","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":12,"title":"Figure 12","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":497373,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eImages of microbial growth in floral solutions used for a 7-day postharvest of tulip cut flowers. A: Control (distilled water), B: CHS-NPs (3.5 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), C: CHS-NPs (7 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), D: Cu-NPs (15 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), E: Cu-NPs (30 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), F: LG oil (150 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), G: LG oil (300 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image12.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/b4bc8feca406fd5aa11a2de1.png"},{"id":75879469,"identity":"d6e60048-18c0-48f3-9341-8f3e9df89978","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 08:12:19","extension":"png","order_by":13,"title":"Figure 13","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":1385834,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eScanning electron microscope images of tulip xylem vessels in cross-section at the base of the stem compellingly demonstrate how various treatments influence bacterial growth and the resulting blockages in the xylem. A and a: Control (distilled water), B and b: CHS-NPs (7 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), C and c: Cu-NPs (30 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e), and D and d: LG oil (150 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"image13.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/682f642c677a4b4298ecc81f.png"},{"id":75925279,"identity":"ee196eb2-aa62-4eba-abf1-2f66d68505b9","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-02-10 15:12:37","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":16803409,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5976331/v1/c384e731-3eea-4b80-84b8-bd6987407608.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"The authors declare no competing interests.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChitosan and copper nanoparticles in vase solutions elevate the quality and longevity of cut tulips, setting a new standard for sustainability in floriculture.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe floriculture industry is very profitable, especially in developing countries. However, it needs careful management and a more environmentally sustainable business model (Yaquby et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR75\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Etheredge et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Tulips (\u003cem\u003eTulipa gesneriana\u003c/em\u003e L.) are important floricultural crops that hold a significant position in the global flower market, ranking third in sales value among cut flowers sold in the Netherlands, following roses and chrysanthemums (Ahmad and Dole \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). With their vibrant colors and delightful fragrances, tulips attract consumers, driving demand and creating trade opportunities (Benschop et al. 2010). This blooming bulbous plant belongs to the Liliaceae family and boasts over 2,500 cultivars, primarily found in temperate zones (Sharma et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR61\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). The tulip is also one of the national symbols of the Netherlands, frequently used in landscaping, including flower galaxies and floral arrangements as cut flowers (Sochacki and Treder \u003cspan citationid=\"CR63\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). It is also known as the turban flower because it is large and has multiple layers of bright, warm-colored petals (Marasek-Ciolakowska et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). The beauty, quality, and longevity of tulip flowers depend on their growing conditions, harvest timing, and postharvest care, also the surrounding environment plays a key role in helping tulips thrive (Ullah et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR72\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Tulip cut flowers must be monitored after harvest and subjected to effective procedures such as cooling, pulsing, and storage in floral hydrating preservatives, along with various packing strategies (Tayal et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR69\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Hence, caring for all the above increases tulips flower comparatively short vase life, lasting about 7\u0026ndash;10 days postharvest by delaying flower senescence, which enhances customer satisfaction, as the longevity of cut flowers significantly impacts their perceived value (Skutnik et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR62\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Tulips are pretty flowers, but their storage and vase life are limited due to early senescence, a process that damages cellular structures (Ullah et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR72\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). This deterioration results in visible issues such as bent necks, yellowing leaves, and wilting blooms (Jahnke et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e), which can negatively impact their market value. Additionally, microbial contamination can lead to xylem blockage and disrupt the balance between water uptake and loss, further contributing to wilting (Ahmad et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Fortunately, advancements in post-harvest technology, including effective floral preservatives, are helping to address these challenges (Spricigo et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR66\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFloral preservatives in holding solutions greatly benefit cut tulip producers and consumers, due to their antimicrobial properties ensure freshness, maintain water absorption, reduce oxidative stress, and provide essential energy, helping to prevent carbohydrate depletion (Song et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR65\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Although chemical preservatives effectively prolong the vase life of flowers, their potential harm to environmental and human health cannot be overlooked (Anjum et al. 2010). Nanoparticles (NPs) are revolutionizing postharvest technology by extending the vase life of fresh-cut flowers by synthesizing compounds at the nanoscale, which these particles offer exceptional properties that reduce the material needed to achieve remarkable results (Manzoor et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). NPs are non-toxic, cost-effective, and eco-friendly, making them a sustainable choice for floral preservation. Also, their powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties further enhance the freshness and longevity of cut flowers (Zahedi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR77\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). In this sense, it had demonstrated that copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) which are hypothesized to exhibit similar effects to sodium hypochlorite and nano silver due to stimulatory, unique effects associated with the induction of anti-microbial agents and antioxidant activities (Adhikari et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). In addition, Cu is a microelement necessary for growth and development and may also have a nourishing effect on vase water (Crisan et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e; Dalda Şekerci et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Cu-NPs facilitate easier cell wall interaction and crossing with the intracellular and principles to promote the development of ROS (reactive oxygen species), thus activating the cell defense mechanism (Al-Hakkani \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). On the other hand, chitosan (CHS) is a naturally occurring cationic polymer derived from chitin found in insect cuticles, crustacean shells, and fungi cell walls, which is well-known for having broad-spectrum antioxidants and anti-microbial properties (El-Sayed et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Therefore, chitosan in nano form (CHS-NPs) has emerged as a promising sustainable preservative for flowers due to its effectiveness stems from its ability to enhance the performance of antimicrobial agents while also promoting their availability and biodegradability (SeyedHajizadeh et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR60\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). The antimicrobial properties of chitosan are attributed to its positively charged amine groups, which interact with the negatively charged membranes of microbial cells, leading to the leakage of their cellular contents (Dutta and Dutta \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e). Additionally, CHS-NPs play a crucial role in extending the vase life of cut flowers by slowing their aging process. They effectively scavenge harmful hydroxyl and superoxide radicals, which protect DNA and enhance antioxidant activities, keeping flowers fresher and more visually appealing for longer (Ali et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). The unique properties of CHS-NPs, such as the quantum size effect, small size, non-toxic, low cost, and eco-friendly, could make them perform excellent activities (Khatri et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Recently, the option of essential oils (EOs) has been an exciting alternative and novel idea in floral preservatives (Teerarak et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR70\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). These natural organic compounds are complex, volatile mixtures of secondary metabolites, including phenols and their by-products (Mutlu-Ingok et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Because these substances boast impressive antimicrobial properties that effectively prevent the blockage of xylem vessels, they are volatile and safe, making them less hazardous than synthetic alternatives (El-Sayed and El-Ziat \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). There are a few discussions on the efficacy of EOs in controlling microbial growth and antioxidant activities for prolonging the vase life of cut flowers (Othman and Esmail \u003cspan citationid=\"CR54\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). EOs of lemongrass (\u003cem\u003eCymbopogon flexuosus\u003c/em\u003e) plants (LG) have a high of citral, limonene, and geranyl acetate constituents, which are responsible for controlling water pH, microorganism growth, and significant scavenging power against free radicals and their ability to mitigate oxidative damage (Schweitzer et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR58\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOur literature survey highlights a significant gap in research regarding the use of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG as floral preservatives for tulip-cut flowers. Despite increasing interest in eco-friendly solutions, there is a scarcity of studies focused on sustainable preservatives that can extend the vase life of cut tulips. This study investigates the effectiveness of Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG at various concentrations. Our goal is to demonstrate how these natural substances can enhance the longevity of tulip flowers by delaying senescence while maintaining their quality and freshness. Ultimately, we seek to identify the most effective, eco-friendly, and affordable floral preservatives suitable for wider use in the floral industry.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Materials and methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.1. Plant material\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTulip (\u003cem\u003eTulipa gesneriana\u003c/em\u003e L.) cv, \u0026lsquo;Apeldoorn Red\u0026rsquo; cut flowers used in the experiment were from the commercial growing farm \u0026ldquo;Floramix Farm\u0026rdquo; in Kafr Hakim, Giza, Egypt. The flowers were moved to the laboratory of the Ornamental Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt, during two successive seasons, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Flowers were harvested in the same developmental phase with an early opening stage when buds showed full color and were within one day of opening, as Armitage and Laushman (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2003\u003c/span\u003e) recommended. The excess leaves on the lower third of the stem were removed and trimmed to about 40 cm with four intact leaves. Then they were cut 1 cm above the base plate of the stem by a slant cut into clear distilled water, which was then made to increase surface area for better water absorption when placed in glass vials (600 ml) holding different vase solutions of 500 ml contain, every vase solution have as two cut tulip stems in a controlled temperature of 20\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1\u0026deg;C, relative humidity of 60\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;5% (12 h day/ 12 h night), and the flowers were evaluated daily.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.2. Floral Preservative Treatments Preparation.\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis experiment included examining the influence of one of seven solutions: water with 15 mmol L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e sucrose (carbon source in all treatments) as control (T1), with 3.5 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e CHS-NPs (T2), 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e CHS-NPs (T3), 15 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e Cu-NPs (T4), 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e Cu-NPs (T5), 150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e LG oil (T6), or the last one with 300 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e LG oil (T7). All solutions were prepared using distilled water and 0.1% (v/v) Tween-20 as a wetting agent and surfactant, sourced from Sigma-Aldrich in St. Louis, MO. These ingredients break down compounds before adding them to the floral preservative solutions. Additionally, surfactants create micro-holes in membranes, facilitating the penetration of macromolecules into cells, and ensuring optimal effectiveness (Moussa et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). In addition, LG oil was purchased from the Unity of Squeezing and Extracting Natural Oils at the NRC (National Research Centre) in Doki, Giza, Egypt. Each treatment included six cut tulip stems, with two tagged and treated separately. Stems were monitored daily for flower longevity and weight. A flower was deemed severed when over half of the tepal area wilted, changed color at the edges, and tepals naturally fell off, turning yellow with wilted leaves (Iwaya-Inoue and Tataka \u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2001\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.3. Copper and Chitosan Nanoparticles.\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eCopper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs), sourced from Sigma-Aldrich Chemical Corporation, USA, have demonstrated effectiveness as Zafar et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR76\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). Additionally, we utilized low molecular weight chitosan (over 85% deacetylated), also acquired from Sigma-Aldrich. A chitosan solution was prepared by melting it in a 0.25% acetic acid solution (Merck, Germany). To create nano-chitosan (CHS-NPs), this was further dissolved into a 1% acetic acid solution, stirred overnight for complete dissolution, then adjusted with distilled water to the desired volume. The concentration of chitosan nanoparticles was set to 50 nm, following the methods outlined by Khairy et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Their properties are summarized in Table\u0026nbsp;(1) and illustrated in Figure (1). CHS-NPs and Cu-NPs are dispersed in a lot of distilled water.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProperties of Chitosan and Copper as nanoparticles.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChitosan NPs\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCHS-NPs Properties\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMolecular weight:\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLess than 100k Da\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDegree of Deacetylation:\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e85%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAppearance (color):\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhite\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAppearance (form):\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSuspension\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAvg-size (TEM):\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLess than 50 nm\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShape (TEM):\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpherical shape\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCopper NPs\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCu-NPs Properties\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBatch number:\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e002\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAppearance (color):\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChestnut brown to Black\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAvg-size (TEM):\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLess than 100 nm\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAppearance (form):\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePowder\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNPs\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Nanoparticles\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4. Data recorded.\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.1. Vase Life.\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eCut tulips Flowers were meticulously observed daily to evaluate flower longevity and the progression of senescence based on clear indicators of wilting and abscission. This hands-on approach allowed us to accurately estimate vase life by counting the days from the moment the flowers were placed in vase solutions (the first day) until a sizable portion of the tepal and leaf area exhibited severe wilting and the tepals naturally detached (the last day). Additionally, we conducted a thorough visual assessment of flower and leaf coloration, following the methods established by Iwaya-Inoue and Tataka (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2001\u003c/span\u003e). This comprehensive evaluation ensures that we capture the complete lifecycle and vibrancy of the flowers.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.2. Relative fresh weight (RFW%).\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe fresh weight of the flowers was appointed immediately before immersion in the solutions on the first day. This initial weight was essential for assessing their water status and was measured daily until the end of the vase's life (Joyce and Jones \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e). The flowers were briefly removed from the solutions for 10 to 20 seconds to facilitate monitoring without affecting hydration.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRFW % = [final weight / initial weight] x 100\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.3. Floral Solution uptake (g/stem/day).\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe weights of the glass vials holding only water solutions, without flowers, were recorded every two days during the vase life evaluation (Elhindi \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e). The following formula determines the rate of floral solution uptake:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSolution Uptake = [(St\u003csub\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sub\u003e- St)]\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhere St\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Solution weight (g) at times 3, 5, and 7 days; St\u003csub\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sub\u003e = solution weight (g) on the previous day by El-Sayed and El-Ziat (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.4. water loss (g/ flower/ day).\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo accurately assess water loss, we measured the weight of vases with cut flowers daily during the vase life evaluation period. By the conclusion of this assessment for each treatment, we were able to calculate the total days of water solution loss, providing valuable insights into the hydration of the flowers as:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater Loss (g/ flower/ day) = (Ct\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e \u0026minus; Ct)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ewhere Ct is the combination of the weight of cut flowers and the vase solution (g) at t\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;days 2, 4, 6, and Ct\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e is the combination of the weights of cut flowers and vase solution (g) on 0, 2 and 4 days, respectively, by L\u0026uuml; et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.5. Stomatal conductance and chlorophyll content index (SPAD).\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eChlorophyll content was measured in mature leaves seven days after treatment in both seasons. Stomatal conductance was measured in mature leaves on the 3, 5, and 7 days after treatments during both seasons. We used the Minolta Chlorophyll Meter (model SPAD-501) for chlorophyll readings and the LICOR 6400 (Lincoln, Nebraska, USA) for stomatal conductance (\u0026micro;mol H2O m\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;2\u003c/sup\u003es\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e), following Khan et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2003\u003c/span\u003e). Light intensity in the sampling chamber was set to 1500 \u0026micro;mol m\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;2\u003c/sup\u003es\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e using a Li-6400-02B LED light source (LI-COR). Each leaf represented a single replication, with three replications per treatment (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.6. Total soluble carbohydrate and protein (g kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e F.W.).\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe total level of soluble carbohydrates directly reflects the content of starch and soluble sugars, highlighting its importance. After seven days during the shelf-life period, we carefully measured the soluble carbohydrate content of fresh weight (FW) in the petals, adhering to the method of Irigoyen et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, we determined protein concentration using the reliable Bradford (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1976\u003c/span\u003e) method.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.7. Superoxide dismutase, and catalase enzyme activities (Units mg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e protein).\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo effectively assess the health of cut tulip flowers, we recorded the levels of oxidative stress after a seven-day storage period in liquid nitrogen at \u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;81\u0026deg;C. Following this critical period, we measured the activity of essential antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), based on the extracted protein content. Therefore, frozen samples were finely ground using mortars placed on an ice bath to maintain their temperature. A total of 100 mg of the resulting powder was then homogenized in an extraction solution composed of 50 mM PBS (plant bio-stimulants), 2% polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), 1 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and 0.05% Triton X-100. Finally, the pH of the solution was carefully adjusted to 7.0 by adding 0.1 N hydrochloric acid (HCl). The supernatant was collected into new tubes following centrifugation at 13,000 rpm for 20 minutes at 4\u0026deg;C. We confidently determined SOD activity by measuring the reduction of Nitro Blue Tetrazolium (NBT), as established by Giannopolitis and Ries (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1977\u003c/span\u003e). We also effectively assessed CAT activity through the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e), following the robust method described by Cakmak and Marschner (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.8. Quantification of Hydrogen Peroxide H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e \u0026micro;mol g\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e.\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAfter a seven-day shelf-life period, the amount of hydrogen peroxide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e), serving as oxidative stress markers in fresh petals, was quantified. This assessment was carried out using a Unico UV-2100 spectrophotometer from the USA, which facilitated the measurement of absorption at 390 nm, following the methodology established by Alexieva et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2001\u003c/span\u003e). This thorough approach ensures an accurate evaluation of the health and quality of the petals.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.9. Averages of bacterial counts (CFU m L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the keeping solution, we incubated the average bacterial infection for 36 hours following a seven-day shelf life. We diluted samples of preservative solutions (1 ml each) with sterilized distilled water and placed them in Petri dishes. Each dish received 10 ml of sterilized plate agar medium and peptone water, which was stirred briefly for 5 to 10 seconds and incubated for 2 days at 30\u0026deg;C. Finally, we counted the bacterial colonies based on CFU/ ml, following the method of Marousky (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR47\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1970\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4.10. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAfter the experiment, we conducted a detailed microscopic analysis to investigate xylem obstruction caused by bacteria at the base of the stems of cut tulip flowers. Bozzola and Russell (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1999\u003c/span\u003e) emphasize the importance of this analysis, as the tulip samples were meticulously prepared and examined using a JEOL (JEM-1400 TEM) transmission electron microscope.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5. Statistical analysis.\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe statistical layout of the experiment was a complete randomized design that featured three replicates of 21 distinct treatments (3 \u0026times; 7). To ensure rigorous analysis, we employed an analysis of variance (ANOVA) test at a 5% significance level using SPSS software version 21 (Armonk, NY, USA). Furthermore, to draw meaningful comparisons among treatments, Duncan\u0026rsquo;s multiple range test was implemented (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05) as described by Duncan1955. All the results were the meaning of three replicates (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3). Moreover, correlations between seven treatments and the trait values related to the antioxidant defense system and carbohydrate and protein stock obtained in cut tulip flowers by heatmaps among parameters were derived using the ClustVis online tool (Metsalu and Vilo \u003cspan citationid=\"CR49\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"3. Results","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.1. Vase Life.\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe vase life of tulip cut flowers in various applications of floral solutions is shown in Figures (2) and (5). Among the seven solutions analyzed, the standout performer was 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e Cu-NPs, which achieved an impressive vase life of 15.56 and 16.33 days in the first and second seasons, respectively. Following was 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e CHS-NPs, with a vase life of 13.01 and 14.00 days in the first and second seasons, respectively. Notably, the lower concentration of LG oil proved to be more effective in prolonging the vase life than its higher concentration in both seasons. These highlight the importance of selecting a well-preservation solution to maximize the longevity of cut tulip flowers. In contrast, the shortest vase life for cut flowers was observed in the control group and when using LG oil at a concentration of 300 mg L-1 during the first and second seasons, respectively. The vase life of a flower is a critical factor that indicates its overall quality often influencing consumer choices in the floral market. This study revealed that tulip cut flowers treated with Cu-NPs showed the longest vase life, highlighting the potential of this treatment to enhance floral longevity.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.2. Relative fresh weight (RFW %).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe impact of various concentrations of CHs-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil on the relative fresh weight (RFW%) of tulip cut flowers is truly remarkable throughout their vase life. Our findings reveal that the RFW% of tulip flowers consistently increased until the fifth day across all treatments. Notably, on day 7, while RFW% declined for most treatments, the Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e emerged as the most effective, followed closely by CHs-NPs at 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, then LG oil at 150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (Fig. 3). This underscores the potential of these treatments to enhance the freshness of cut flowers. RFW% achieved an impressive 110.97 and 112.30% with 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e of Cu-NPs on day 7 of the first and second seasons, respectively. In comparison, control flowers treated with distilled water only reached 69.78 and 72.47% in the first and second seasons, respectively. Also, the lowest RFW% was observed in control on all days. These results are like the vase life parameters mentioned above. This significant difference underscores the effectiveness of Cu-NPs in promoting flower quality.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec21\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.3. Water relationship\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec22\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.3.1. Floral water uptake (g/ flower/ day).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFloral water uptake demonstrated remarkable improvement throughout the vase life period. As illustrated in Figures (4) and (5), treatment of 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e of Cu-NPs produced the most significant enhancement in floral water uptake on days 3, 5, and 7 across both seasons. Significantly, the control (distilled water) exhibited the lowest floral water uptake on all assessed days during the two seasons. Also, water uptake showed a significant boost until day five, followed by a lowering in all treatments, except for the CHS-NPs at 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, and LG oil at 150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e. This indicates the superior effectiveness of these treatments in enhancing water uptake and ensuring optimal flower freshness and longevity.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec23\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.3.2. Water loss (g/ flower/ day).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe water loss levels of tulip cut flowers (Figs.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e and 5) across 3, 5, and 7 days demonstrate a significant reduction with all treatments applied, particularly with CHS-NPs at 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, and LG oil at 150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e when compared to the untreated flowers. The treatment of control exhibited the highest water loss, recording 35.10, 36.75, and 30.59 g/flower/day on days 3, 5, and 7 in the first season, respectively. In the second season, these figures were 30.12, 32.29, and 28.13 g/flower/day. This data strongly highlights the effectiveness of the treatments in promoting better water retention in tulip cut flowers.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec24\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.4. Stomatal conductance (\u0026micro;mol H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO m\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;2\u003c/sup\u003es\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e)\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe data in Figure (6) illustrates a noteworthy change in stomatal conductance throughout the experiment across both seasons. Notably, the Cu-NPs treatment at 30 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; and CHS-NPs at 7 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; in the third, five, and seventh days produced the highest stomatal conductance in cut tulip leaves compared to other treatments. This finding underscores the critical role stomatal conductance plays in regulating gas diffusion. The enhanced gas exchange between leaves tissues and the atmosphere contributed to significant improvements in photosynthetic attributes, highlighting the potential of these treatments to optimize flower quality and their postharvest performance.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec25\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.5. Total chlorophyll index (SPAD)\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe SPAD values demonstrated significant variations among the treatments applied to cut tulip leaves (Fig.\u0026nbsp;7). Total chlorophyll concentrations (SPAD) were notably higher in the Cu-NPs treatment at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, followed closely by the CHS-NPs treatment at 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e, outperforming the control application in both seasons. In contrast, the control (distilled water) and LG oil at 300 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e treatments displayed substantially lower chlorophyll levels. Compared to the other treatments. This highlights that enhancing chlorophyll concentration is not just beneficial but essential for improving the CO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e assimilation rate, ultimately contributing to healthier and more vibrant cut tulip foliage.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec26\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.6. Total soluble carbohydrates %\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe total soluble carbohydrates measured in flowers treated with Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil are shown in Figure (8). Notably, the flowers exposed to Cu NPs at a concentration of 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e achieved impressive carbohydrate levels of 18.66 and 20.21% across both seasons, surpassing all other treatments. Then, the flowers treated with CHS-NPs at 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e showed carbohydrates of 17.70 and 18.65% in both seasons. These findings highlight the superior effectiveness of Cu or CHS as NPs in enhancing carbohydrate contents in the flower. Followed by the flowers treated with LG oil at 150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e contained 14.82 and 16.85% carbohydrates in the two respective seasons, which was lower than the carbohydrate content observed in other NPs treatments. In contrast, the control flowers, exposed to distilled water, exhibited the lowest carbohydrate levels, measuring 11.12% in the first and 13.37% in the second seasons.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec27\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.7. Total soluble protein (g kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e FW).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe results emphasizing the total soluble protein content in tulip cut flowers treated with different preservative solutions, including Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil, are interestingly also presented in Figure (8). The treatment with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e produced the highest total soluble protein levels of 28.87 and 30.45 g kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e FW in the first and second seasons, respectively. Displaying it is superior to other treatments. In contrast, the control cut flowers recorded the lowest protein levels at 14.81 and 18.81 g kg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e FW for the respective seasons. This data indicates that total soluble protein increased across all treatments in the experiment, reinforcing the effectiveness of these preservative solutions compared to the control.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec28\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.8. Antioxidant defense system in cut Tulip flowers.\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec29\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.8.1. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes (Units mg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e protein).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAs shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;9, the treatment of cut tulip flowers with a 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e solution of Cu-NPs led to a significant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities compared to the control group using distilled water. This remarkable improvement highlights the beneficial impact of Cu-NPs on the vitality and overall health of the flowers. Notably, at this concentration, SOD levels showed a consistent upward trend throughout the experiment. Additionally, the individual shelf life of cut tulip flowers was affected by various treatments, including Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil solutions. The peak SOD activity reached impressive levels (1.77 and 1.92 Units mg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e protein) with the 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e Cu-NPs in the first and second seasons, respectively. In contrast, the treatment of the control recorded significantly lower SOD activity levels (0.86 and 0.92 Units mg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e protein) during the same periods, respectively. This evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of Cu-NPs in prolonging life and enhancing the health of cut tulip flowers.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec30\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.8.2. Catalase (CAT) enzymes (Units mg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e protein).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eData regarding the effect of NPs as Cu and CHS, in addition to LG oil treatments on the CAT enzyme activity of cut tulip flowers, are presented in Figure (9). The data indicates highly significant differences among CAT enzyme activity in response to different Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil applications. Notably, the highest number of enzyme units of CAT was recorded when cut tulip flowers were placed in solutions with 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e of Cu-NPs, followed by 7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e of CHS- NPs, and then 150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e of LG oil. The numbers of CAT enzyme units (2.82 and 2.98 Units mg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e protein, in the first and second seasons, respectively) in response to the highest levels of Cu-NPs (30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e) were significantly higher than those of the controls (1.21 and 1.28 Units mg\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e protein, in the first and second seasons, respectively), indicating a remarkable beneficial effect of Cu-NPs at this concentration. This evidence powerfully supports the usage of Cu-NPs to enhance CAT activity in cut tulips, promoting their longevity and vitality.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec31\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.8.3. Hydrogen peroxide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e) content (\u0026micro;mol g\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e FW).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe effects of different concentrations of Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, or LG oil in floral solutions significantly influenced the hydrogen peroxide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e) contents in cut tulip flowers, as illustrated in Figure (9). Throughout the experiment, H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e levels consistently increased across on-cut tulip flowers in all treatments in both seasons. Importantly, the control cut flowers in distilled water exhibited the most substantial rise in H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e during both seasons. In contrast, the lowest increase of H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e was recorded in cut flowers supplemented with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; in the first and second seasons. Moreover, the highest recorded H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e content reached 72.64 \u0026micro;mol g\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e FW in the first season and 76.40 \u0026micro;mol g\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e FW in the second season in the control (distilled water) application. This was closely followed by the high concentration of LG oil at 300 mg L⁻\u0026sup1;, which also displayed remarkable H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e levels in both experimental seasons. These findings demonstrate the crucial role of selecting the appropriate floral solution to significantly improve the longevity and freshness of cut tulip flowers by effectively reducing H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e levels.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec32\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.8.4. Heatmap analysis of the antioxidant defense system, and total soluble carbohydrate and protein.\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn the heatmap shown in Figure (10), a strong positive correlation was observed between the traits of the antioxidant defense system and the levels of carbohydrates and proteins in cut tulip flowers under various floral solutions. In contrast, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) levels exhibited negative correlations with carbohydrate and protein levels, as well as with the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and CAT. This inverse relationship shows that higher oxidative stress markers (H₂O₂) correspond with lower carbohydrate and protein contents, and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, in cut tulip flowers treated with preservation solutions containing Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e-1\u003c/sup\u003e, there was a significant increase in total soluble carbohydrates, protein levels, and the activities of CAT and SOD enzymes, and a reduction in H₂O₂ formation. Conversely, in the cut tulip flowers treated with control floral solutions, a decline in antioxidant capacity was observed, marked by decreased CAT and SOD enzyme activity, lower carbohydrate and protein levels, and a significant increase in H₂O₂ levels. These intricate correlations revealed complex interactions among physiological and biochemical processes in response to experimental treatments, providing key insights into the mechanism of stress tolerance and senescence regulation in the studied tulip flower systems.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec33\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.9. Mean bacterial counts (CFU mL\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFigures (11) and (12) show the significant impact of various treatments on microbial populations in floral solutions during both seasons. Treatments including CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil solutions effectively reduce bacterial counts compared to the control solution (distilled water). Moreover, in the control solution, mean bacterial counts reached an unacceptable level of 10600 and 8,600 CFU mL\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e in the first and second seasons, respectively. In contrast, the 30 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; Cu-NPs treatment decisively reduced these counts to 200 and \u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;1 CFU mL\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e in the first and second seasons, respectively. Furthermore, the 7 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; CHS-NPs and 150 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; LG oil solutions, also proved effective in significantly lowering bacterial levels throughout both seasons. These results unequivocally demonstrate the superiority of these treatments in combating microbial presence. Additionally, the images in Figure (12) decisively demonstrate the most significant effectiveness of 30 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; Cu-NPs in suppressing bacterial growth in floral solutions, followed closely by 7 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; CHS-NPs and then 150 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; LG oil solutions. The 30 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; Cu-NPs treatment unequivocally outperforms the control and all other tested options in halting microbial proliferation. This compelling evidence strongly demands the acceptance of these treatments to ensure notably more beneficial and vibrant floral solutions.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec34\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.10. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM).\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImages from scanning electron microscopy (Fig.\u0026nbsp;13) indicated that the different concentrations studied of Cu-NPs, CHS-NPs, and LG oil positively influenced the vase life of cut tulip flowers compared to untreated (distilled water). The cross-section of xylem vessel cells in cut flowers treated with distilled water (control) showed significant bacterial accumulation, as illustrated in Fig.\u0026nbsp;13 (A and a). This bacterial blockage in the xylem leads to water stress, severely limiting the flowers\u0026apos; lifespan. As a result of this blockage, the cut flowers were unable to maintain their turgidity, which reduced the vase life of tulip cut flowers. In comparison, flowers treated with CHS-NPs (7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e), Cu-NPs nanoparticles (30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e), and LG oil (150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e) demonstrated remarkably cleaner xylem vessels and a significant reduction in bacterial accumulation compared to the control. However, it is important to note that the development of bacterial growth and xylem obstructions at the stem end was only slightly diminished by the treatments with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (Fig.\u0026nbsp;13, C and c) when evaluated against control and other treatments. Additionally, using Cu-NPs or CHS-NPs decreases microbial activity, and their ability to effectively inhibit bacterial growth and xylem obstructions at the stem end shows only marginal improvement over the control group and alternative options.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eTulips cut flowers are a key source of export income in the global floriculture market. Their variety of colors brightens homes and is important for ceremonies like weddings and funerals, symbolizing love, appreciation, and respect, making them critical to society (Nguyen and Lim \u003cspan citationid=\"CR53\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). It has a relatively short vase life, and its longevity is influenced by numerous factors related to preharvest, harvest, and postharvest practices (Ullah et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR72\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Managing these factors is essential for maintaining freshness and quality in the floral industry. Floral preservative solutions are imported for longevity the vase life of cut flowers, and eco-friendly options offer a remarkable advantage. Utilizing low-cost and non-toxic alternatives as compared to chemical solutions (Kavosiv et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e; Manzoor et al. 2022) such as nanoparticles and essential oils, not only prolongs the freshness of flowers but also promotes a healthier environment. Evidence shows that the longevity of cut flowers during the postharvest stage is influenced by maintaining optimal water relationships, supported by the powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of these innovative solutions (Gururani et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChitosan (CHS-NPs), copper (Cu-NPs) as nanoparticles, and lemongrass essential oil (LG) utilized in this study dramatically enhanced the vase life of tulip cut flowers. By promoting increased water uptake and boosting relative fresh weight (RFW%), these treatments also significantly reduce water loss compared to untreated flowers. The results of this study align with the findings of Rashidiani et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR57\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e), who proved that Cu-NPs, when applied to a floral solution for cut carnations and chrysanthemums, effectively prevented chlorophyll degradation and extended the vase life. Additionally, cut roses treated with higher levels of Cu-NPs experienced increased vase life due to enhanced antioxidant activity, which helps prevent xylem blockage caused by microbial infections (Vahidi and Jafarpour, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR73\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, Cu-NPs improved the relative fresh weight and floral water uptake in cut roses (Amingad et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, CHS-NPs significantly enhance the vase life of \u003cem\u003eRosa hybrid\u003c/em\u003ea plants by effectively reducing transpiration, controlling weight, and delaying ripening while safeguarding the environment from active chemicals (Seyed Hajizadeh et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR59\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). The shelf life of cut flowers is crucial for keeping quality. Ba\u0026ntilde;uelos-Hern\u0026aacute;ndez et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e) found that \u003cem\u003eHeliconia bihai\u003c/em\u003e lasts up to 20 days with 1.0% CHS treatment, while 1.5% CHS shortens it to 15 days. Spricigo et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR66\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e) also observed this trend in gerbera-cut flowers, emphasizing the importance of optimal concentration of CHS NPs for longevity. Also, El-Sayed et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) found that the use of CHS-NPs treatment enhanced floret opening and decreased weight loss in cut flowers. Their research also proved the impact of oxidative stress on these flowers, showing that the treatment helped keep photosynthetic pigments and water relations. Consequently, CHS-NPs are a highly promising eco-friendly solution for extending the vase life of cut flowers. Massoud et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR48\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) have convincingly shown that treating chrysanthemum cut flowers with a solution containing 25 mg L⁻\u0026sup1; of LG oil can significantly prolong their vase life, enhance water uptake, and boost their relative fresh weight. Moreover, Thakur et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR71\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) revealed that adding LG oil to the maintenance of gladiolus cut flowers not only increases their vase life but also improves water absorption. This remarkable improvement is largely due to citral, an aldehyde in LG oil, which possesses potent antimicrobial properties that effectively suppress the growth of harmful bacteria (Peichel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR55\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Embracing these findings can elevate floral solutions to new heights.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOur research highlights a crucial connection between key photosynthetic parameters such as the total chlorophyll index (SPAD), stomatal conductance, and the vase life of cut tulip flowers. These factors are essential for optimizing gas exchange and enhancing the photosynthesis process. Remarkably, our study demonstrates that the application of CHS-NPs, Cu-NPs, and LG oil significantly boosts both photosynthetic capacity and stomatal conductance, effectively delaying petal senescence and prolonging the vase life of cut tulips. Notably, Cu-NPs at a high concentration of 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (T5) led to remarkable improvements in stomatal regulation and photosynthetic efficiency, by the increase in SPAD value. Recent research by Faraz et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) demonstrates that Cu-NPs enhance plant tissue by increasing total chlorophyll content (SPAD) and boosting the photosynthetic rate, which protects against aging. This improvement is crucial for maintaining chloroplast integrity, preventing oxidative damage, and promoting the biosynthesis of essential photosynthetic pigments, thanks to the protective role of Cu-NPs on chloroplast enzymes (Liu et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR43\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). In addition, Cu-NPs effectively inactivate the chlorophyllase enzyme, preventing chlorophyll degradation in chrysanthemums, and extending vase life to an impressive 12 days, compared to just four days for untreated flowers (Hashemabadi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e). Similar benefits have been recorded in cut \u003cem\u003eRosa hybrida\u003c/em\u003e (Seyed Hajizadeh et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR59\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e), as well as in cut carnation and chrysanthemum flowers (Rashidiani et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR57\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). A similar trend was observed for stomatal conductance, in which Cu-NPs significantly impact photosystem II (PSII), boost the levels of photosynthetic pigments, and improve the ability to assimilate CO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e, which directly correlates with increased stomatal conductance, photosynthesis rate, and water content in Cut Narcissus flowers (Dalda Şekerci et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, Cu-NPs can attach to or penetrate cell surfaces through pores and lenticels, increasing stomatal conductance, enhancing gas exchange, and further optimizing photosynthesis (Nekoukhou et al. 2024).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn this study, the use of NPs and LG oil led to increases in total soluble carbohydrate and protein of cut tulip leaves compared to the control which gave the lowest values during both seasons (Fig.\u0026nbsp;8). Soluble carbohydrates serve as the essential energy source to cut flowers, making them crucial for flower quality because they enhance petal growth, coloration, and longevity while preventing protein degradation, a decline in these carbohydrates can accelerate aging in flowers (Chen et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, Soluble proteins are vital for extending the vase life of flowers. Research by Hassan and Ali (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) highlights that higher protein content in cut gladiolus can significantly enhance postharvest longevity because petal senescence is associated with the loss of proteins, which compromises membrane protein integrity and function. Our experiment showed that treating cut tulips with Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (T5), CHS-NPs at 7mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e (T3), or LG oil at 150 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e(T6) enhances water uptake, Photosynthesis, and sugar translocation, then leads to better resource accumulation and increased turgor pressure, which delays flower senescence. These positive effects have been confirmed in chrysanthemum (Hashemabadi et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e), \u003cem\u003eRosa hybrida\u003c/em\u003e (Seyed Hajizadeh et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR59\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e), and Gladiolus flowers (Thakur et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR71\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e), highlighting the potential of these treatments to improve floral longevity.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlso, the results illustrated in Figure (9) indicate that cut flowers placed in a vase solution with 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e CU-NPs or 7.5 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e CHS-NPs experienced a significant increase in SOD and CAT levels. In stark contrast, cut flowers placed in distilled water, which served as untreated control, exhibited a notable rise in H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e content compared to the other treatments shown in Figure (9) and heat map analysis in Figure (10). These findings suggest that the right nanomaterial can enhance the flowers' protective enzyme levels, promoting their overall health and longevity. For instance, Sutulienė et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR68\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e) found that treated plants with Cu-NPs at 12.5 ppm led to notable improvements in the antioxidant system and ROS-scavenging enzyme activity, as well as reduced oxidative stress indicators such as lipid peroxidation and peroxide levels, compared to untreated plants. Similarly, Adhikari et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e) reported that Cu-NPs enhanced the production of key antioxidant enzymes, including SOD and POD, resulting in overall higher antioxidant levels. Cu-NPs are essential catalytic centers in plant cellular metabolism. They enhance resistance and defense by boosting antioxidant enzymes like SOD, which converts harmful superoxide anions into H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e. Then, CAT transforms H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e into oxygen (O\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e) and water (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO). This process improves chlorophyll content, increases Rubisco activity, and promotes carbohydrate accumulation (Wu et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR74\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). In addition, CHS-NPs are distinguished by their unique physical and chemical properties, offering exceptional tensile strength, conductivity, elasticity, and chemical reactivity due to their amine and -OH groups, which enhance water relations (Spricigo et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR66\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Research by El-Sayed et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) and Hassan et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e) highlights their crucial role in carbohydrate activity for reducing H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e and malondialdehyde levels while mitigating oxidative stress and delaying senescence. Also, as a bioactive material, CHS increases total phenol and sugar contents and boosts antioxidant capacity, helping to counteract oxidative stress following flower harvest (Hong-Juan and Huan-Qing \u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, Petriccione et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR56\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e) found that CHS-NPs enhance enzymatic antioxidants and scavenge H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e, improving membrane integrity and significantly enhancing the postharvest quality of loquats.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the current research, tulip cut flowers treated with high concentrations of NPs (T3) and (T5) showed a significant reduction in bacterial counts compared to the control (distilled water), which compelling results explained in Figures (11), (12), and (13), highlighting the effectiveness of these treatments in improving flower longevity. Likewise, Rashidiani et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR57\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) conducted a study on the use of Cu-NPs at a high concentration of 20 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e to enhance the longevity of carnation and chrysanthemum cut flowers, their the findings indicated significant improvements in RFW%, vase solution uptake, membrane stability index, and total soluble carbohydrates, with a notable reduction in both the bacterial population at the stem end and H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e levels. Vahidi et al. (2013) and Esfahani et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) also demonstrated that increasing the concentration of Cu-NPs had a positive impact on the vase life of cut roses, which is the enhancement attributed to the elevated activity of antioxidant enzymes, particularly SOD and CAT, which effectively prevent xylem blockage. Adding Cu-NPs to vases helps flowers last longer by slowly releasing Cu\u0026sup2;⁺ ions into the water, and this gradual release keeps harmful bacteria away for a long time during the vase's life (Rashidiani et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR57\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Cu\u0026sup2;⁺ ions are control over enzymes that prevent blockages caused by wounds and slow down the actions of SOD and catalase CAT enzymes (Al-Hakkani, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). This process reduces the risk of blockages in the xylem at the ends of the flower stems, enhancing the cut flower's overall longevity and appearance. Additionally, it interacts with biomolecules such as DNA and proteins for disruption of biochemical processes of bacterial, and destruction of the plasma membrane integrity of their cells by the creation of ROS, plus changes in the expression of some apoptosis genes that cause bacterial cell death (Sun et al. \u003cspan citationid=\"CR67\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e). As for CHS-NPs, Spricigo et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR66\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e) provide compelling evidence that a solution containing CHS-NPs was superior in preventing stem bending by effectively controlling microbial growth, significantly inhibiting molds and yeasts on cut gerbera flowers, outperforming alternative solutions. Furthermore, Seyed Hajizadeh et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR59\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e) demonstrated that cut roses placed in a preservative solution with CHS-NPs at 5\u0026ndash;10 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e achieved a maximum vase life of 15 days while diminishing microbial growth compared to control solutions. CHs-NPs also benefit from the extended vase life of cut carnations compared to CHS and untreated floral due to their broad antimicrobial activity against fungal pathogens (Solgi \u003cspan citationid=\"CR64\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). However, bulk CHS solubility limitations reduce its effectiveness, while CHS-NPs offer significant advantages by enhancing key properties (Iriti and Varoni \u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e). Chitosan (CHS) is a safe, biocompatible, renewable, and biodegradable material renowned for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. These benefits stem from its degree of deacetylation (DDA), which involves removing acetyl groups from chitin and adding reactive amino groups (El Ghaouth et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e). This process can enhance cell rupture, disrupt membrane permeability, inhibit bacterial DNA replication, and cause cell death (Dehnad et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Thus, the nano-chitosan solution reduced bacteria activity by successfully interacting with vase microflora.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5. Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study compellingly highlights the exceptional potential of chitosan and copper nanoparticles as antioxidants and antimicrobial components in preservative solutions for cut flowers. When applied to cut tulips, a solution containing copper nanoparticles (30 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e) or chitosan nanoparticles (7 mg L\u003csup\u003e\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/sup\u003e) remarkably stabilizes water balance within the stems, enhances their relative fresh weight, and avoids their curvature. Moreover, these treatments effectively inhibit microbial proliferation at the stem base, significantly reducing the risk of bacterial blockages in the xylem for up to seven days. This not only preserves the quality of the solution longer but also ensures optimal conditions for water absorption in the floral stems' conducting vessels. Additionally, the nanoparticles significantly raise chlorophyll levels, total soluble carbohydrates, and proteins while decreasing hydrogen peroxide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e) production and boosting antioxidant enzyme activity, thus enhancing membrane stability. In summary, utilizing chitosan or copper as nanoparticles in preservative solutions dramatically enhances the vase life of cut tulips, with copper nanoparticles proving to be particularly effective. This innovative approach offers a promising alternative with exceptional antimicrobial properties, that can reduce agrochemical inputs into the environment, making it an ideal solution for effectively preserving cut flowers and extending their shelf life. Additionally, it supports the sustainability of the floriculture industry.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor contribution:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eEZO performed the experimental work, RAE conducted formal data analysis and interpretation, EZO and IME designed and supervised the study, IME and RAE wrote the original draft preparation, and EMO wrote the review and editing. All authors have read and agreed to the final version of the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgments:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eWe would like to thank the staff at both the Cairo University Ornamental Department and the Ornamental Plants and Woody Trees National Research Centre, for their invaluable technical support and for supplying all facilities during the experiments.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe authors declare that they don\u0026apos;t receive any funds, grants, or other forms of support while preparing this manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConflict of interest:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe authors declare they have no conflict of interest, and the authors confirm that this study is original and not under review by another journal.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThis article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors \u0026ldquo;not applicable\u0026rdquo;.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAdhikari T, Sarkar D, Mashayekhi H, Xing B (2016) Growth and enzymatic activity of maize (Zea mays L.) plant: solution culture test for copper dioxide nanoparticles. J Plant Nutr 39:99\u0026ndash;115. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1080/01904167.2015.1044012\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1080/01904167.2015.1044012\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAhmad I, Dole JM (2014) Homemade floral preservatives affect postharvest performance of selected specialty cut flowers. HortTechnol 24:384\u0026ndash;393. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH.24.3.384\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.21273/HORTTECH.24.3.384\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAhmad A, Rashid H, Sajjad R, Mubeen S, Ajmal B, Khan MA (2014) Enhancing the vase life of tulip (Tulipa gesneriana L.) using various pulsing solutions of humic acid and npk. Int J Plant Anim Environ Sci 4:193\u0026ndash;200\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlexieva V, Sergiev I, Mapelli S, Karanov E (2001) The effect of drought and ultraviolet radiation on growth and stress markers in pea and wheat. Plant Cell Environ 24:1337\u0026ndash;1344. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-3040.2001.00778.x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1046/j.1365-3040.2001.00778.x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAl-Hakkani MF (2020) Biogenic copper nanoparticles and their applications: A review. SN Appl Sci 2:505. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1007/s42452-020-2279-1\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s42452-020-2279-1\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAli EF, Issa AA, Al-Yasi HM, Hessini K, Hassan FAS (2022) The Efficacies of 1-Methylcyclopropene and Chitosan Nanoparticles in Preserving the Postharvest Quality of Damask Rose and Their Underlying Biochemical and Physiological Mechanisms. Biology 11:242. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/biology11020242\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/biology11020242\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmingad V, Sreenivas KN, Fakrudin B, Seetharamu GK, Shankarappa TH, Venugopalan R (2017) Comparison of silver nanoparticles and other metal nanoparticles on postharvest attributes and bacterial load in cut roses var. Taj Mahal. Int J Pure App Biosci 5:579\u0026ndash;584. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.18782/2320- 7051.2610\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.18782/2320- 7051.2610\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnjum MA, Naveed F, Shakeel F, Amin S (2001) Effect of some chemicals on keeping quality and vase-life of tuberose (\u003cem\u003ePolianthes tuberosa\u003c/em\u003e L.) cut flowers. Life 12:23\u0026ndash;65\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eArmitage AM, Laushman JM (2003) Specialty cut flowers, 2nd edn. Timber Press Portland, OR, USA\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBa\u0026ntilde;uelos-Hern\u0026aacute;ndez KP, Garc\u0026iacute;a-Nava JR, Leyva-Ovalle OR, Pe\u0026ntilde;a-Valdivia CB, Trejo C, Ybarra-Moncada MC (2017) Chitosan coating effect on vase life of flowering stems of \u003cem\u003eHeliconia bihai\u003c/em\u003e (L.) L. cv. Halloween. Postharvest Biol Technol 132:179\u0026ndash;187. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.postharvbio.2017.05.009\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.postharvbio.2017.05.009\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBenschop M, Kamenetsky R, Le Nard M, Okubo H, De Hertogh A (2016) The global flower bulb industry: Production, utilization, research. Hortic Rev 36:1\u0026ndash;115\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBozzola JJ, Russell LD (1999) Electron Microscopy: Principles and Techniques for Biologists, 2nd edn. Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc., Boston, USA\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBradford MM (1976) A rapid and sensitive method for the quantitation of microgram quantities of protein utilizing the principle of protein-dye binding. Anal Biochemist 72:248\u0026ndash;254. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/0003-2697(76)90527-3\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/0003-2697(76)90527-3\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCakmak I, Marschner H (1992) Magnesium Deficiency and High Light Intensity Enhance Activities of Superoxide Dismutase, Ascorbate Peroxidase, and Glutathione Reductase in Bean Leaves. Plant Physiol 98:1222\u0026ndash;1227. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1104/pp.98.4.1222\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1104/pp.98.4.1222\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChen C, Chen H, Ni M, Yu F (2021) A study on petal morphological and physiological characteristics of \u003cem\u003eStyrax japonicus\u003c/em\u003e during the flowering period. J Agron 11:1498. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11081498\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/agronomy11081498\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCrisan MC, Teodora M, Lucian M (2022) Copper Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Characterization, Physiology, Toxicity and Antimicrobial Applications. Appl Sci 12:141. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/app12010141\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/app12010141\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDalda Şekerci A, Barut G, \u0026Ouml;zdal HS, \u0026Uuml;nsal HT (2024) The Effects of Silver and Copper Nano Particle-Infused Vase Solutions on the Vase Life of Cut Narcissus (Narcissus L.) Flowers. \u0026Ccedil;ukurova J Agric Food Sci 39:231\u0026ndash;240\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDehnad D, Emam-Djomeh Z, Mirzaei H, Jafari SM, Dadashi S (2014) Optimization of physical and mechanical properties for chitosan\u0026ndash;nanocellulose biocomposites. Carbohydr Poly 105:222\u0026ndash;228. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.01.094\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.01.094\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDuncan DB (1955) Multiple ranges and multiple F. test. Biometrics 11:1\u0026ndash;42. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.2307/3001478\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.2307/3001478\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDutta J, Dutta PK (2010) 15 antimicrobial activity of chitin, Chitosan, and their oligosaccharides. Chitin, chitosan, oligosaccharides their Deriv. Biol Act Appl 14:195\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEl Ghaouth A, Arul J, Wilson C, Benhamou N (1997) Biochemical and cytochemical aspects of the interactions of chitosan and Botrytis cinerea in bell pepper fruit. Postharvest Biol Technol 12:183\u0026ndash;194. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/S0925-5214(97)00056-2\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/S0925-5214(97)00056-2\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eElhindi KM (2012) Evaluation of several holding solutions for prolonging vase-life and keeping quality of cut sweet pea flowers (\u003cem\u003eLathyrus odoratus\u003c/em\u003e L). Saudi J Biol Sci 19:195\u0026ndash;202. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2011.12.001\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.sjbs.2011.12.001\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEl-Sayed IM, El-Ziat RA (2021) Utilization of environmentally friendly essential oils on enhancing the postharvest characteristics of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat cut flowers. Heliyon 7:e05909. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e05909\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e05909\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEl-Sayed IM, Salim RG, El-Haggar EF, El-Ziat RA, Soliman DM (2020) Molecular Characterization and Positive Impact of Brassinosteroids and Chitosan on \u003cem\u003eSolidago canadensis\u003c/em\u003e cv. Tara Characteristics Horticulturae 6:100. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae6040100\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/horticulturae6040100\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEsfahani MB, Pour MJ, Mortazaeinezhad F, Saeed SE (2013) The effect of nano copper, nanosilver and sucrose on vase life of cut rose Dolcevita\u0026rsquo;. Inter J Agri Crop Sci 5:36\u0026ndash;38\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEtheredge CL, Waliczek TM, DelPrince J (2024) Comparison of United States Consumers\u0026rsquo; Perceptions and Willingness to Pay for Sustainable Environmental Practices in the Retail Floral Industry Based on Geographical Regions. HortTechnol 34:241\u0026ndash;251. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05392-24\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.21273/HORTTECH05392-24\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFaraz A, Faizan M, Rajput VD, Minkina T, Hayat S, Faisal M, Alatar AA, Abdel-Salam EM (2023) CuO Nanoparticle-Mediated Seed Priming Improves Physio-Biochemical and Enzymatic Activities of \u003cem\u003eBrassica juncea\u003c/em\u003e. Plants 12:803. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/doi:10.3390/plants12040803\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"doi:10.3390/plants12040803\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiannopolitis CN, Ries SK (1977) Superoxide dismutase occurrence in higher plants. Plant Physiol 59:309\u0026ndash;314. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1104/pp.59.2.309\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1104/pp.59.2.309\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGururani MA, Atteya AK, Elhakem A, El-Sheshtawy ANA, El-Serafy RS (2023) Essential oils prolonged the cut carnation longevity by limiting the xylem blockage and enhancing the physiological and biochemical levels. PLoS ONE 3:e0281717. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281717\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1371/journal.pone.0281717\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHashemabadi D, Kaviani B, Shirinpour A, Zahiri S (2013) Effects of copper nanoparticles (CNPs) on vase life of cut flowers chrysanthemum (\u003cem\u003eChrysanthemum morifolium\u003c/em\u003e L.\u0026lsquo;White\u0026rsquo;). Eur J Exp Biol 3:153\u0026ndash;155\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHassan FAS, Ali EF (2014) Protective effects of 1-methylcyclopropene and salicylic acid on senescence regulation of gladiolus cut spikes. Sci Hort 179:146\u0026ndash;152. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2014.09.025\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.scienta.2014.09.025\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHassan FAS, Ali EF, Mostafa NY, Mazrou R (2021) Shelf-life extension of sweet basil leaves by edible coating with thyme volatile oil encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles. Int J Biol Macromol 177:517\u0026ndash;525. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.02.159\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.02.159\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHong-Juan J, Huan-Qing L (2015) Chitooligosaccharide prolongs vase life of cut roses by decreasing reactive oxygen species. Korean J Hortic Sci Technol 33:383\u0026ndash;389. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.7235/hort.2015.14188\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.7235/hort.2015.14188\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIrigoyen JJ, Einerich DW, S\u0026aacute;nchez-D\u0026iacute;az M (1992) Water stress induced changes in concentrations of proline and total soluble sugars in nodulated alfalfa (\u003cem\u003eMedicago sativa\u003c/em\u003e) plants. Physiol Plant 84:55\u0026ndash;60. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1111/j.1399-3054.1992.tb08764.x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/j.1399-3054.1992.tb08764.x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIriti M, Varoni EM (2015) Chitosan-induced antiviral activity and innate immunity in plants. Environ Sci Pollut Res 22:2935\u0026ndash;2944. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-014-3571-7\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s11356-014-3571-7\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIwaya-Inoue M, Tataka M (2001) Trehalose plus chloramphenicol prolong the vase life of tulip flowers. HortSci 36:946\u0026ndash;950. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.36.5.946\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.21273/HORTSCI.36.5.946\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJahnke NJ, Kalinowski J, Dole JM (2022) Postharvest Handling Techniques for Long-term Storage of Cut Tulip and Dutch Iris. HortTechnol 32:263\u0026ndash;274. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH05010-21\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.21273/HORTTECH05010-21\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJoyce DC, Jones PN (1992) Water balance of the foliage of cut Geraldton waxflower. Postharvest Biol Technol 2:31\u0026ndash;39. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/0925-5214(92)90025-K\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/0925-5214(92)90025-K\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKavosiv M, Mirzakhani A, Hakimi L (2013) Influences of Thyme oil (\u003cem\u003eThymus vulgaris\u003c/em\u003e L.), \u003cem\u003eAloe vera\u003c/em\u003e gel and some chemical substances on vase-life of cut \u003cem\u003eRosa hybrida\u003c/em\u003e cv. White naomi. Int J Agron Plant Prod 4:970\u0026ndash;975\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhairy AM, Tohamy MR, Zayed MA, Mahmoud SF, El-Tahan AM, El-Saadony MT, Mesiha PK (2022) Eco-friendly application of nano-chitosan for controlling potato and tomato bacterial wilt. Saudi J Biol Sci 29:2199\u0026ndash;2209. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.11.041\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.11.041\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhan W, Prithviraj B, Smith DL (2003) Photosynthetic responses of corn and soybean to foliar application of salicylates. J Plant Physiol 160:485\u0026ndash;492. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1078/0176-1617-00865\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1078/0176-1617-00865\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhatri D, Panigrahi J, Prajapati A, Bariya H (2020) Attributes of Aloe vera gel and chitosan treatments on the quality and biochemical traits of post-harvest tomatoes. Sci Hort 259:108837. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2019.108837\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.scienta.2019.108837\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLiu A, Xiao W, Lai W, Wang J, Li X, Yu H, Zha Y (2024) Potential Application of Selenium and Copper Nanoparticles in Improving Growth, Quality, and Physiological Characteristics of Strawberry under Drought Stress. Agriculture 14:1172. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14071172\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/agriculture14071172\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eL\u0026uuml; P, Huang X, Li H, Liu J, He S, Joyce DC, Zhang Z (2011) Continuous Automatic Measurement of Water Uptake and Water Loss of Cut Flower Stems. Hortsci 46:509\u0026ndash;512. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI.46.3.509\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.21273/HORTSCI.46.3.509\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eManzoor A, Bashir MA, Hashmi MM (2020) Nanoparticles as a preservative solution can enhance postharvest attributes of cut flowers. Italus Hortus 27:1\u0026ndash;14. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.26353/j.itahort/2020.2.0114\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.26353/j.itahort/2020.2.0114\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarasek-Ciolakowska A, Sochacki D, Marciniak P (2021) Breeding Aspects of Selected Ornamental Bulbous Crops. Agronomy 11:1709. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11091709\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/agronomy11091709\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarousky FJ (1970) Conditioning gladiolus spikes to maintenance of fresh weight with pre-treatments of 8-hydroxy-quinoline citrate plus sucrose. Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society 82: 411\u0026ndash;414\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMassoud HYA, Kassem MM, Farag NBB (2015) Effect of some essential oils on cut flowers of chrysanthemum (\u003cem\u003eDendranthema Grandiflorum\u003c/em\u003e Ram.) Cv.Flyer. J Plant Prod 6:563\u0026ndash;574. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.21608/jpp.2015.49581\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.21608/jpp.2015.49581\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMetsalu T, Vilo J (2015) ClustVis: A web tool for visualizing clustering of multivariate data using Principal Component Analysis and heatmap. Nucleic Acids Res 43:W566\u0026ndash;W570. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkv468\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1093/nar/gkv468\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMoussa MM, Mazrou RM, Hassan FAS (2024) How Sage and Rosemary Essential Oils Regulate Postharvest Senescence and Extend the Vase Life of Cut Gladiolus Spikes. Horticulturae 10:638. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060638\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/horticulturae10060638\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMutlu-Ingok A, Devecioglu D, Dikmetas DN, Karbancioglu-Guler F, Capanoglu E (2020) Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antimycotoxigenic, and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oils: An Updated Review. Molecules 25:4711. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25204711\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/molecules25204711\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNekoukhou M, Fallah S, Pokhrel LR, Abbasi-Surki A, Rostamnejadi A (2023) Foliar enrichment of copper oxide nanoparticles promotes biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and commercially valuable secondary metabolites and essential oils in dragonhead (\u003cem\u003eDracocephalum moldavica\u003c/em\u003e L.) under semi-arid conditions. Sci Total Environ 863:160920. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160920\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160920\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNguyen TK, Lim JH (2021) Do Eco-Friendly Floral Preservative Solutions Prolong Vase Life Better than Chemical Solutions? Horticulturae 7:415. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae7100415\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/horticulturae7100415\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOthman EZ, Esmail SEA (2020) Enhancing vase life of \u003cem\u003eHelianthus annuus\u003c/em\u003e L. cut flowers using salicylic acid and dill essential oil. Middle East J Agri Res 9:1045\u0026ndash;1056. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.36632/mejar/2020.9.4.81\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.36632/mejar/2020.9.4.81\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePeichel C, Nair DVT, Dewi G, Donoghue AM, Reed KM, Kollanoor JA (2019) Effect of Lemongrass (\u003cem\u003eCymbopogon citratus\u003c/em\u003e) Essential Oil on the Survival of Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Heidelberg in Contaminated Poultry Drinking Water. J Appl Poult Res 28:1121\u0026ndash;1130. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3382/japr/pfz076\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3382/japr/pfz076\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePetriccione M, Pagano L, Forniti R, Zampella L, Mastrobuoni F, Scortichini M, Mencarelli F (2018) Postharvest treatment with chitosan affects the antioxidant metabolism and quality of wine grape during partial dehydration. Postharvest Biol Technol 137:38\u0026ndash;45. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.postharvbio.2017.11.010\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.postharvbio.2017.11.010\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRashidiani N, Nazari F, Javadi T, Samadi S (2020) Comparative postharvest responses of carnation and chrysanthemum to synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Adv Hort Sci 34:133\u0026ndash;145. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.13128/ahsc-7491\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.13128/ahsc-7491\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSchweitzer B, Bal\u0026aacute;zs VL, Moln\u0026aacute;r S, Sz\u0026ouml;gi-Tat\u0026aacute;r B, B\u0026ouml;sz\u0026ouml;rm\u0026eacute;nyi A, Palkovics T, Horv\u0026aacute;th G, Schneider G (2022) Antibacterial Effect of Lemongrass (\u003cem\u003eCymbopogon citratus\u003c/em\u003e) against the Aetiological Agents of Pitted Keratolyis. Molecules 27:1423. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27041423\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/molecules27041423\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeyed Hajizadeh H, Dadashzadeh R, Azizi S, Reza Mahdavinia G, Kaya O (2023) Effect of Chitosan nanoparticles on quality indices, metabolites, and vase life of \u003cem\u003eRosa hybrida\u003c/em\u003e cv. Black magic. Chem Biol Technol Agric 10:12. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1186/s40538-023-00387-7\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1186/s40538-023-00387-7\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeyedHajizadeh H, FarajiChelanolya A, Zahedi SM, Moghadam A, Mahdavinia G, Kaya O (2024) Nanochitosan-encapsulated melatonin: an eco-friendly strategy to delay petal senescence in cut gerbera flowers. BMC Plant Biol 24:1024. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-024-05725-x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1186/s12870-024-05725-x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSharma P, Bhargava B, Sangmesh P, Ujala (2022) Agro-Biodiversity: Conservation and Use of Plant Genetic Resources. In: Datta SK, Gupta YC (eds) Floriculture and Ornamental Plants. Handbooks of Crop Diversity: Conservation and Use of Plant Genetic Resources. Springer, Singapore. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-3518-5_9\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/978-981-15-3518-5_9\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSkutnik E, Rabiza-Świder J, Jędrzejuk A, Łukaszewska A (2020) The Effect of the Long-Term Cold Storage and Preservatives on Senescence of Cut Herbaceous Peony Flowers. Agronomy 10:1631. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy10111631\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/agronomy10111631\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSochacki D, Treder J (2017) A Survey of viruses\u0026rsquo; occurrence in Polish and imported tulip bulbs. Acta Scientiarum Polonorum Hortorum Cultus 16:105\u0026ndash;112\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSolgi M (2018) The application of new environmentally friendly compounds on postharvest characteristics of cut carnation (\u003cem\u003eDianthus caryophyllus\u003c/em\u003e L). Rev Bras Bot 41:515\u0026ndash;522. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1007/s40415-018-0464-x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s40415-018-0464-x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSong J, Li Y, Hu J, Lee J, Jeong BR (2021) Pre- and/or Postharvest Silicon Application Prolongs the Vase Life and Enhances the Quality of Cut Peony (\u003cem\u003ePaeonia lactiflora\u003c/em\u003e Pall). Flowers Plants 10:1742. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/plants10081742\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/plants10081742\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSpricigo PC, Pilon L, Trento JP, de Moura MR, Bonfim KS, Mitsuyuki MC, Mattoso LHC, Ferreira MD (2021) Nano-chitosan as an antimicrobial agent in preservative solutions for cut flowers. J Chem Technol Biotechnol (JCTB) 96:2168\u0026ndash;2175. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1002/jctb.6766\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1002/jctb.6766\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSun T, Yan Y, Zhao Y, Guo F, Jiang C (2012) Copper oxide nanoparticles induce autophagic cell death in A549 cells. PLoS ONE 7:e43442. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0043442\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1371/journal.pone.0043442\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSutulienė R, Ragelienė L, Duchovskis P, Miliauskienė J (2022) The Effects of Nano-copper, -molybdenum, -boron, and -silica on Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Growth, Antioxidant Properties, and Mineral Uptake. J Soil Sci Plant Nutr 22:801\u0026ndash;814. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1007/s42729-021-00692-w\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s42729-021-00692-w\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTayal R, Kumar V, Irfan M (2021) Harnessing the power of hydrogen sulphide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eS) for improving fruit quality traits. Plant Biol 24:594\u0026ndash;601. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1111/plb.13372\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/plb.13372\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeerarak M, Pilasombut K, Laosinwattana C (2024) Peppermint essential oil enhances the vase life of Dendrobium orchids. Heliyon 10:e31636. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31636\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31636\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThakur M, Verma V, Chandel A, Kumar R, Sharma T, Kumar A, Bhardwaj S, Kumar R, Bhargava B (2013) Lemon grass essential oil improves \u003cem\u003eGladiolus grandiflorus\u003c/em\u003e postharvest life by modulating water relations, microbial growth, biochemical activity, and gene expression. Sci Rep 13:2630. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-28829-0\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1038/s41598-023-28829-0\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUllah MJ, Bashir M, Gul H, Shahzad A, Shahzad M (2022) Use of Citric Acid and Iron Sulfate in Promoting Post-Harvest Longevity of Cut Tulips (Tulipa Gesneriana L. Cv. Marylin) in Vase Solutions. Contemp Agri 71:57\u0026ndash;64. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.2478/contagri-2022-0009\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.2478/contagri-2022-0009\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVahidi P, Jafarpour M (2015) Effects of Herbal Essences and Nano-technology on Enzyme Activity of Cut Rose Flowers Cultivar \u0026lsquo;Black Majic\u0026rsquo;. Specialty J Biol Sci 1:14\u0026ndash;18\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWu H, Shabala L, Shabala S, Giraldo JP (2018) Hydroxyl radical scavenging by cerium oxide nanoparticles improves Arabidopsis salinity tolerance by enhancing leaf mesophyll potassium retention. Environ Sci Nano 5:1567\u0026ndash;1583. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1039/C8EN00323H\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1039/C8EN00323H\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYaquby AM, Ahmadi BA, Ashkar SB (2022) Effects of Plant Growth Regulators on Quality, Quantity and Vase-life of Rose flower (\u003cem\u003eRosa hybrida\u003c/em\u003e cv. Avalanche). J Humanit Social Sci Stud 4:206\u0026ndash;212. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.32996/jhsss.2022.4.3.20\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.32996/jhsss.2022.4.3.20\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZafar A, Ahmad I, Ahmad A, Ahmad M (2016) Copper (II) oxide nanoparticles augment antifilarial activity of Albendazole: In vitro synergistic apoptotic impact against filarial parasite \u003cem\u003eSetaria cervi\u003c/em\u003e. Int J Pharma 50:49\u0026ndash;64. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.01.059\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.01.059\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZahedi SM, Karimi M, Da Silva JAT (2020) The use of nanotechnology to increase quality and yield of fruit crops. J Sci Food Agri 100:25\u0026ndash;31. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.10004\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1002/jsfa.10004\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"Cairo University","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Chitosan, Copper, Nanoparticles, Essential Oil, Antioxidant enzyme activity, Floral industry","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5976331/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5976331/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eNanoparticles offer innovative solutions for postharvest applications, allowing for the development of innovative compounds that effectively extend the shelf life of cut flowers by reducing ethylene production and preventing bacterial growth. Tulips as a leading choice among cut flowers, encounter common issues such as neck bending and a limited display life, which can severely impact their marketability. This experiment aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nano chitosan (CHS-NPs) at 3.5 and 7.0 mg L\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e, nano copper (Cu-NPs) at 15 and 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e, and lemongrass essential oil (LG) at 150 and 300 mg L\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e as innovative, eco-friendly solutions for improving the quality and extending the shelf life of cut tulip flowers. The findings reveal that CHS-NPs and Cu-NPs significantly prolong the vase life of cut tulip flowers, with optimal concentrations determined to be 7.5 mg L\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e and 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e, respectively. These treatments not only enhance water uptake and relative fresh weight (RFW%) but also effectively inhibit microbial growth at the stem base and prevent bacterial blockages in the xylem for up to seven days. Moreover, they substantially increase chlorophyll levels, total soluble carbohydrates, and proteins while decreasing hydrogen peroxide (H\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003eO\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e) production and boosting antioxidant enzyme activity, thereby enhancing membrane stability. In conclusion, CHS-NPs at 7.5 mg L\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e and Cu-NPs at 30 mg L\u003csup\u003e− 1\u003c/sup\u003e significantly enhance the vase life of cut tulips by improving water balance and antioxidant activity, with Cu-NPs demonstrating better effectiveness. The adoption of Cu-NPs at the recommended concentration should be prioritized in the tulip floral industry.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Chitosan and copper nanoparticles in vase solutions elevate the quality and longevity of cut tulips, setting a new standard for sustainability in floriculture.","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-02-10 08:12:14","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5976331/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"6ad087d8-6b5a-40c6-bd11-1f793e044fe2","owner":[],"postedDate":"February 10th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":43965485,"name":"Horticulture"},{"id":43965486,"name":"Plant Physiology and Morphology"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-02-12T14:23:42+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-02-10 08:12:14","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-5976331","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-5976331","identity":"rs-5976331","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}