Disclosed are compositions that comprise one or more N-acylethanolamine
compounds for maintaining the freshness and appearance of cut flowers,
floral products, decorative foliage, fruits, and other plant cuttings.
More specifically, the present invention provides methods for treating
and storing cut flowers, Christmas trees, fruits, and other severed plant
parts that preserve the appearance, freshness, fragrance and/or aesthetic
qualities of the botanical products. Using the disclosed compositions,
the shelf life of cut flowers was substantially prolonged, in many cases
2 to 5 times longer than untreated flowers, with the treated flowers or
foliage appearing healthy and viable, and without wilting, dehydration,
leaf drop, or visible signs of senescence. Likewise, treatment of
ornamental coniferous plants with the anti-senescent compositions delayed
deterioration and leaf drop, while extending the overall appearance and
quality of the plants and plant cuttings.