Changes in carbohydrate and ABA content in tulip bulbs during storage

Abstract

Changes in carbohydrate and ABA content in tulip bulbs during storage at 20 and 5°C were investigated in relation to the response to gibberellin treatment after planting. The breakdown of starch and the accumulation of soluble carbohydrate in the scales were observed during storage. Cold (5°C) treatment promoted the metabolic changes of carbohydrate, but the similar changes proceeded slowly at 20°C ABA content in the scales gradually decreased similarly as the duration of storage was extended regardless of storage temperature. Decrease in ABA in the scales during storage is time dependent but not temperature dependent and the decrease may promote the sensitivity to gibberellin after planting.