Silver nanoparticles enhance the vase life of cut roses by regulating antioxidant defense systems and inhibiting microbial clogging

• 2.5 μg/mL AgNPs provides optimal preservation effects for fresh-cut roses. • Optimal concentration of AgNPs enhanced the antioxidant capacity of cut flowers. • AgNPs reduced bacterial proliferation at stem ends and prevented bacterial secretions. • 2.5 μg/mL AgNPs reduced ethylene yield by suppressing ethylene-related genes’ expression. • PCA and cluster analysis further validated a significant difference between 2.5 μg/mL AgNPs group and control. Despite the well-documented antioxidant and an