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Time of India

NBRI spray to keep bouquet flowers fresh for longer span

Lucknow: How about the cut flowers we decorate in vases at our home, or the bouquets we give to loved ones stay fresh for days? FloriGuard, a special spray developed by CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, has the potential of increasing the shelf life depending on the variety. For example, the spray will double the shelf life of Chrysanthemum while tripling the life and freshness of Gerbera cut flowers. The technology of the spray has been transferred to a Pune-based private firm for its production, and it was launched for the public on Friday. "NBRI-FloriGuard is a herbal spray that acts as a natural/herbal preservative solution that effectively extends the lifespan of cut flowers through multiple mechanisms. The formulation works by suppressing ethylene-producing genes, which significantly reduces the overall ethylene production in flowers. This reduction ranges between 33-56%, thereby slowing down the natural ageing process of cut flowers," said NBRI principal scientist BN Singh, who is credited with developing the product. He said that the spray contains active compounds that strengthen the flower's natural defence system against harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS). by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo By enhancing the flowers' inherent antioxidant mechanisms, it protects against cellular damage and deterioration. The formulation is particularly effective in preventing common problems associated with cut flowers. It reduces premature falling of petals, maintains moisture balance, and prevents unsightly brown spots on petals and leaves. The spray ensures that flowers retain their natural shape and structure for a longer duration, he added. NBRI director Ajit Kumar Shahsany said, "NBRI in its mission encompasses scientific research, knowledge dissemination, and societal benefit by giving best herbal products to society along with our consistent initiatives like pollution remediation, climate adaptation, and plant improvement to benefit common man." The technology of another product, a herbal floor disinfectant and cleaner (floormop), and a herbal nano serum was also transferred to a Gurugram-based firm on the occasion. "We have developed a water-soluble plant-based floor disinfectant," said Singh.