Liatris: Postharvest Handling Tips

Arising from a corm, liatris spicata will bear floral spikes, approximately 70–90 days after planting. Liatris flowers open from the top of the spike first and then progressively open down the stem.

Liatris stems should be harvested when 50% of the upper flowers have opened for the best longevity in plain water. Liatris stems harvested when the flowers are still in the bud stage will develop and open if the stems are stored in a floral preservative solution. Some researchers recommend harvesting liatris stems when 3–4 flowers are open with their immediate placement in a 5% sugar solution for 24–72 hours before transferring the cut stems into a preservative solution containing 2.5–5% sugar. Liatris is reported to be moderately sensitive to ethylene, so liatris stems should not be stored in a cooler with fresh fruit like apples.

After harvest, remove all the lower foliage from the liatris stems. Liatris stems should be hydrated in clean water with a pH of 3.5. Vase-life of liatris is decreased by wet or dry storage if stored at 40°F. The utilization of a floral preservative with liatris will increase vase-life significantly. In retail settings, liatris stems should be recut prior to hydrating. Liatris stems can be stored in a cooler at 32-35°F for one week.