Preservation of Plumeria rubra L.(Rathu Araliya) for dry flower arrangements

Abstract

This study was carried out to optimize a flower drying technique applicable for long term preservation of Plumeria rubra L. in dry flower arrangements. Silica gel, borax with corn meal, river sand, sea sand and air drying were used to dry the P. rubra flowers. Retention of colour and shape of dried flowers were evaluated comparing against Royal Horticultural Colour Chart and designating weighted scores for each colour. Reduction of flower weight was used to select the methods for rapid drying. Preservation using silica gel and river sand showed significantly performances in colour retention at the completion of drying at four days. Silica gel, river sand, borax with corn meal and sea sand showed significantly different performances (p= 0.05) in shape retention when compared with the control. P. rubra petiole fixed well to metal wires showing ability of use for dry flower arrangements.