Suitability of Hippeastrum for cut flower production

The optimal stage for harvesting Hippeastrum is the colored bud phase or the moment the first flower in the inflorescence opens. Since the scape is hollow and prone to deformation under the weight of the flowers, internal support rods or stem stabilization are used to maintain its upright position. To ensure water uptake and prevent air embolism in the xylem, thermal treatment of the stems in hot water, puncturing, or forced filling of the cavity with water followed by sealing the cut is employed.

The specificity of Hippeastrum lies in its ability to withstand transport without water and its high sensitivity to low temperatures. Storage at temperatures between +1 and +5°C is used to delay flower opening and manage the timing of product marketing. When processing technology is followed, the decorative quality of cut flowers is maintained for 4–6 days. Breeding programs are focused on developing cultivars with increased scape strength and productivity in industrial forcing conditions.