CONSUMER PREFERENCE OF FIVE VARIETIES OF ZINNIA POSTHARVEST
Carleo*, J.1; Nitzsche, P2; Perdomo, P.3; Polanin, N.4; Wulster, G.5; Wyenandt, C. A.61Agricultural Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Cape May Court House, NJ, 08210
2Agricultural Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Morristown, NJ, 07960
3Director of Research & Regulatory Affairs, Cleary Chemical Company, Dayton, NJ, 08810
4Agricultural Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Bridgewater, NJ, 08807
5Extension Specialist, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901
6Extension Specialist, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Bridgeton, NJ, 08302
Abstract:
To the consumer, flower longevity reflects not only quality but added value and repeat sales. Marketing research has focused predominantly on the wholesale production, distribution and retail florist markets. But how does this translate to the local grower and direct marketer? As New Jersey’s agriculture turns more and more to direct marketing, agro-tourism, local roadside stands, and pick-your-own operations, local production practices and ‘results’ must be compared against advertised crop characteristics and attributes. In addition, local research on post harvest techniques and cut flower evaluations are necessary for the local grower to sustain a high quality supply of seasonal cut flowers and their place in the market and community. As part of the 2006 Rutgers Zinnia Variety Trials, five varieties of zinnia were tested for consumer preference during the first 8 DAH. Seven participants rated the varieties daily on a scale of 1-5, with 1 being optimal and 5 being dead. The varieties were each rated for three characteristics: color, freshness and appearance. Results indicated that ‘Benary’s Giant’ mix was consistently rated the best by evaluators, as they retained their attractiveness, freshness, and color. ‘Oklahoma’ (appearance and freshness) and ‘Peppermint Stick’ (appearance and color) showed the earliest declines in ratings. The ratings means of all of the other varieties were consistent with each other, while ‘Zowie! Yellow Flame’ exhibited the lowest ratings overall.