Morphological Development and Carbohydrate Changes of Forced Tulips

Abstract

Prior to forcing, bulbs of the tulip cultivars Merry Widow and Apeldoorn were held at 9°C for periods ranging from 8 to 21 weeks. Chemical analyses after these periods showed a progressive decline in alcohol-insoluble carbohydrates and in the percentage dry matter content associated with increased duration of low temperature treatment, and there was a corresponding increase in soluble sugar levels. Some simple relationships were found between the biochemical composition of the bulbs when housed and their subsequent morphological development.