Ria Leonard
Senior Biological Scientist
Telephone (352) 392-6900
Fax: (352) 392-3870
E-mail: rleonard@ifas.ufl.edu
I have worked at the University of Florida with the floriculture
postharvest group for nearly 20 years. The main focus of our research
has been on postharvest care and handling of potted flowering plants
and cut flowers. The goal of our research is to improve quality and
maximize longevity of many flowering plant species. We have investigated
the role that cultural, genetic and environmental factors have on postharvest
performance and the effects and control of ethylene. We are currently
evaluating and testing new postharvest handling techniques on cut flowers
and testing ethylene sensitivity of several foliage crop species.
Recent Publications:
- Drive Sales with Variety Selection. Greenhouse Grower. July 2005. p. 76-86. Nell, T. and Leonard, R.
- Prevent Leaf Yellowing on Cut Lilium. Floraculture International. July 2005. p. 32. Leonard, R. and Nell, T.
- Handle with Care. Delivering quality flowers in a global marketplace. Floraculture International. June 2005. p.18-20. Nell, T. and Leonard, R.
- The Effect of Storage Temperatures on Colombian Grown Cut Rose Varieties. Acta Horticulturae. 2005. 669:337-342. Nell, T.A. and Leonard, R.T.
- Can We Really Make a Difference in Shipping and Handling. 2005. Acta Horticulturae. 669: 23-27. Nell, T.A. and Leonard, R.T.
- Short-Term Pulsing Improves Postharvest Leaf Quality of Cut Oriental Lilies. HortTechnology. 2004. 14(3):405-411. Leonard, R.T. and Nell, T.A.
- The Flower “Care-athon” – How to Finish First in the Race for Fresh Flower Quality. Florists' Review. November 2004. p. 89-92. Nell, T. and Leonard, R.
