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Dry flowers

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 Dry flowers

Saima Rashid Mir

Abstract: Fresh flowers are appealing and attractive, but maintaining their allure and fresh appearance for an
extended period of time is difficult. To overcome this problem, the same flowers can be dried and processed into dry
flowers that last indefinitely. Innovative ideas capable of providing solutions to social problems can be turned into
money-spinning business opportunities. The dried flowers obtained can be used in various ways to produce
significant items and would thus be able to assist with saving the climate from contamination caused due to
improper disposal of flower waste. Dry flowers are the key components of the floriculture industry, which are
rapidly rising in international trade. The dry flower industry is offering a big opportunity for the national economy in
diversified dimensions by creating job opportunities and entrepreneurial development. Dry flowers are modest,
extensive, and hold their aesthetic worth regardless of the period. Dried flowers and unused plant materials are
offering opportunities for entrepreneurship by using dry flower technology. Practically all flowers, including leaves
and other botanicals, can be viably dried with various drying methods. Apart from flower structure and time of
collection, the quality of dried flowers incredibly relies upon the method of drying. Various methodologies needed
for the production of dried alluring plant material incorporate air drying, press drying, embedded drying in
desiccants, microwave oven drying, hot air oven drying, water drying, glycerin drying, and skeletonization. The
information and knowledge gathered in this book may be useful in drawing the consideration of researchers to work
on it. Other than that, business people can directly utilize the knowledge in the study as the suitable drying methods
and approximate drying time for a variety of flowers and foliage have been enlisted in this book.
[Saima Rashid Mir. CDry flowers. Rep Opinion 2023;15(1):28-46].ISSN1553-9873(print);ISSN2375-7205(online).
http://www.sciencepub.net/report. 05.doi:10.7537/marsroj150123.05.

Key words: Dry flowers, Dryingmethods, Preservation, Skeletonization, Eco-friendly, Value addition, Employment
generation.

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Contents
1. Importance of floriculture in India
2. Introduction on Dry flowers
3. Advantages of dry flowers
4. Precautionary measures for selecting the plant material for drying
4.1 Stage of harvest
5. Significance of moisture in dried flowers
6. Methods of drying
6.1 Air Drying
6.2 Press drying
6.3 Embedded Drying in desiccant
6.3.1 Sand as Desiccant
6.3.2 Borax as Desiccant
6.3.3 Silica gel as Desiccant
6.4 Microwave oven drying
6.5 Hot air oven drying
6.6 Water drying
6.7 Glycerin Drying
6.8 Skeletonization
7. Bleaching
8. Coloring
9. Packing and Storing of Dry Flowers
10. Conversion of dry flowers into value added products
11. Summary
Acknowledgement
Reference

1. Importance of Floriculture in India Ahmednagar, Sangli, Kolhapur, Thane, Satara, and

Floriculture is an ancient Indian farming activity with Nagpur are prominent flower marketing centers.
enormous potential for generating profitable self- Flowers such as chrysanthemum, gladiolus, rose,
employment among small and marginal farmers. The tuberose, gerbera, carnations, marigold, asters,
commercial production of cut flowers, nursery plants, anthurium, orchids, jasmine, and others are grown,
potted plants, cut foliage, seeds, bulbs, tubers, rooted with annual demand for flowers increasing by more
cuttings, and their use in value-added products are all than 25%.
part of India's floriculture business. In recent years, it Globally, the export of flowers has increased
has emerged as a profitable agri-business in India and phenomenally from 8 billion US dollars in 2006 to 13
around the world, as rising living standards and a billion US dollars in 2015. The number of countries
growing awareness among citizens around the world to reported to have exported flowers in 2006 was 50,
live in an environmentally friendly environment have which has increased to 118 in the year 2015. The
resulted in an increase in demand for floriculture Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the
products in both developed and developing countries. world’s flower exports during 2006–2015 was 5
The Indian government has designated floriculture as a percent. In 2016-17, India exported 22,086 MT of
sunrise sector with a 100% export-oriented status. flowers to the rest of the world, worth 549 crores. India
Owing to a steady increase in demand for flowers, is in the 18th place, contributing 0.6% of the global
floriculture has become one of the important floriculture trade. During the last decade, exports
commercial trades in agriculture (APEDA). increased at a CAGR of 4.33 percent. In India as a
In 2008-09, India's floriculture area was estimated to be whole, the domestic Indian market is growing at a rate
over 1,67,000 hectares, with over 987 million tons of of 25% per year. In recent years, states such as
loose flowers and 4,794 million cut flowers produced Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal,
(Anonymous 2009). The area under floriculture in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Haryana have
Maharashtra is 16,740 hectares, with a production of emerged as major floriculture centers. (Vahoniya et al.,
69.45 thousand tonsof flower products (Anonymous 2018).
2009). In the year 2008-09, India's total floriculture Floriculture, thus, provides great opportunities to
exports totaled 368.81 crores (Anonymous 2008-09). farmers for money generation and empowerment. The
Metropolitan cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, farmers can grow flowers and foliage crops on every
Bangalore, Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, Nashik, inch of their land. Floriculture also offers careers in

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production, marketing, export, and research. One can applications and techniques along with fresh ideas and
find employment in the floriculture industry as a farm inspiration.
manager, plantation expert, supervisor, or project The most beneficial zone of floriculture is the dry
coordinator, and many more positions. Besides, one flower industry. This industry has developed quickly,
can work as a consultant or landscape architect with with more than 60% of benefits belonging to the
proper training. In addition, floriculture provides floriculture business (Ranjan et al., 2002). The
opportunities in the service sector, which include such business's extended yearly turnover starting in 2003
jobs as floral designers, landscape designers, and was in excess of 150 crores (Singh 2009). Potpourris
landscape architects are a significant portion of the dry flower industry,
.2. Introduction on Dry flowers esteemed at Rs. 55 crores in India alone (Murgan et al.,
Flowers are magnificent creations of nature considered 2007). The business in India is over 40 years old and
as an image of adoration, excellence, and a worldview exports 500 varieties of flowers to 20 nations
of life in view of their innumerable tones. Fresh (Bhattacharjee et al., 2003). The USA is the biggest
flowers, no matter how beautiful they are, are consumer of dried and artificial flowers, assessed at US
expensive, fleeting, temperature sensitive, and only $2.4 million yearly, followed by Germany and the UK
available during a specific season (Shailza et al., 2018). (Bhattacharjee et al., 2003).
Their freshness and excellence is lost because of With its rich floral diversity, India could serve as a
different biochemical changes and microbial activities, major raw material supplier for the industry. To
and they can be retained only for few days, even by encourage the eco-friendly trade, the government has
utilizing the best methods of postharvest technology given a rebate of 25% on the freight of this product,
(Datta 1999). Even when the best flower additives or and a bulk quantity of the raw material is exported
chemicals were used, the shelf life of flowers could from India to developed countries like the UK, Japan,
only be extended by 40% (Ranjan et al., 2002). To and America, where dried flower arrangements are in
conquer this problem, the same flowers and foliage’s great demand (Puri 1995). Besides domestic
can be dried to prolong their beauty and freshness, consumption, there is an increasing demand worldwide
which holds both economic and aesthetic importance for the decoration of living and working places with
(Saima et al., 2020). Dehydration of flowers is the eco-friendly items.
practice of preservation of flowers or the process of With the growing demand for natural, eco-friendly
abolishing the moisture from flowers. The drying products, dried flowers and dried botanicals have seen
techniques result in the preservation of flowers and significant growth in the floriculture industry. Future
foliage, and the products can be successfully utilized in possibilities of dry flower industry are relied upon to
the preparation of various floral decorations and contribute a tone to the country's economy in contrast
different craft items (Saima et al., 2019). Dried flowers to fresh cut flowers and other live plants. Exports of
have a long life and can be used multiple times to meet floriculture from India increased by 2.66 percent in
decorative needs. Dried flowers offer an excellent recent years, rising from Rs. 266 crores in 2002–2003
opportunity to Indian entrepreneurs because the to Rs. 302 crores in 2003–2004 and Rs. 273 crores in
country has a wide variety of floral materials, cheap 2004–2005. Dry flowers account for 71% of India's
labor, and a favorable climate (Gurumurti 1997). Dry export basket, which is exported to the United States,
flowers and foliage are attractive and possess a number Europe, Japan, Australia, and Russia. Dry flowers
of abilities, including ornamental, durable, lifelong, and account for about two-thirds of all floriculture exports.
year-round availability (Joyce 1998). The dried flowers The demand for dried flowers is growing, providing
and plant parts are natural, inexpensive, and have Indian entrepreneurs with numerous opportunities to
everlasting value with year-round availability (Safeena enter into the global floricultural trade (Singh 2009).
et al., 2006). Thus, dried flowers come as a brilliant Dry flowers can be formed by simple drying techniques
option in contrast to fresh flowers and foliage for in which, along with reduction of water content, the
interior design as well as for a variety of other aesthetic color and shape of flowers are retained to a maximum
and commercial uses. extent so as to preserve their beauty and hence their
The majority of people choose dried flowers as they value. Dry flowers, thus, obtained can be preferably
require little care and are much more durable. The used in comparison to acrylic and plastic flowers so as
dried floral arrangement can be kept anywhere with no to sustain the environment by avoiding pollution. The
worries of water spills or having to change the soil or various methods used for the drying of plant materials
even prune the leaves. Dry flowers are natural flowers include air drying, press drying, embedded drying in
processed and preserved in a manner to retain their desiccants, microwave oven drying, hot air oven
qualities for a prolonged duration. The interest in dried drying, water drying, glycerin drying, skeletonization,
flowers comes in waves, bringing all the old etc. Air drying is the easiest natural method for the
preservation of flowers and foliage. Pressing is the

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oldest method, having its first report in 1820, which drying and preservation can be collected
was then used by the botanist for the preparation of throughout the year. Almost all plant material,
herbarium, which also became part and parcel of the everything from flowers, foliage, branches,
syllabus for studying Botany. Flowers with heavy seed pods, cones, tree branches, etc., can be
moisture content are subjected to dehydration by successfully dried with different drying
exposure to desiccants in which water content is totally methods. The following important measures
absorbed by desiccants such as sand, borax, and silica should be taken while collecting the plant
gel. Many workers have already recommended this material to get the desired results:
method for delicate flowers, which are not generally • The flowers, foliage, and leaves should be
preserved by other methods. Flower drying in a healthy. The plant material should be cut with
microwave or hot air oven is the fastest method that the help of a clean and sharp cutter.
yields colorful and better quality dry flower products. • The flowers at different stages of development
Water drying is good for the drying of certain flowers. and the foliage at the peak of its growing
Glycerin drying brings the leaves into an everlasting season should be collected.
category. Skeletonization reduces the leaf to a network • Flowers with bright colours should always be
of veins and so on. Whatever the method used, it preferred.
should aim at the retention of shape, color, and, • The plant material to be dried should be
moreover, the overall beauty of flowers as such. cleaned properly and wiped off of any
3. Advantages of dry flowers: Dried flowers moisture.
are predominantly utilized in beautification, especially • Extra bunches of plant material should be
for floral arrangements. They can be organized in collected to allow for some loss. The selected
different ways to invigorate the interior decoration of plant material should be processed for drying
homes and other functions throughout the year. Dry soon after cutting to prevent it wilting.
flowers and products are popular because of the • We must be continually careful in cutting the
number of advantages they have. plant material and have to never cut the
• Dry flowers are both environmentally friendly endangered plants.
and cost-effective. As a result, they can be 4.1 Stage of harvest
reused multiple times. The appropriate stage of harvesting the plant material
• Dry flowers can withstand a wide range of for drying is important to get the best results. The
temperatures. It can withstand the scorching proper phase of flowers to be reaped is the point at
heat of summer and the freezing cold of which they have just started to develop or at a
winter. completely open stage. However, it varies as per the
• Dry flowers require less care and maintenance species and the form of flower desired. Fresh plant
and are available throughout the year. material should be gathered for drying, while blurred
• Dry flowers are useful in every season, and old ones should be discarded. The flowers of
especially during winters when fresh flower different plants can be assembled at various stages
availability is limited and expensive. (Paul and Shylla 2002), but they should be collected
• Dry flowers can be transported easily with only as they come to maturity (Padmavathamma 1999).
fewer transportation charges than fresh Flowers could be collected either at the bud stage or at
flowers. later stages until their colour has not blurred. The delay
• Dry flower arrangements can last indefinitely in harvesting time (2–3 days) brings about the collapse
if the flowers and foliage are dried and of petals, which causes their shattering (Bhattacharjee
preserved with suitable methods of drying and et al., 2003). According to Safeena et al., (2006), rose
preservation. The art of crafting and flowers harvested at half bloom stage provide superior
composing captivating dried flower quality dry roses with less drying time and better
arrangements is limitless. colour retention due to colour stability at this stage.
• Dry flowers and products can be used in Datta (1997) recommended that flowers and foliage
generating of diverse, economically useful should be gathered from the fields a couple of days
products. Hence, it can be used in revenue after irrigation. The gathered material should be
generation throughout the year. liberated from surface dampness and dew.
4. Precautionary measures for selecting the Subsequently, it is better to gather the material in the
plant material for drying dry season on a bright day. White et al. (2002) reported
The selection of a suitable crop is the primary that materials like dry grasses, seeds, pinecones, and
requirement to get better quality products. The most seed heads should be reaped in their full maturity
plant material selected for the process of

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stage toward the finish of their developing season Naturally dry materials include dry grasses, seeds, pine
before they become wilted. cones, and most seed pods. This material should be
5. Significance of moisture in dried flowers harvested when in good condition, usually in the fall at
The moisture content has a significant impact on the the end of its growing season, but before it becomes
form of the flowers. The less moisture provides rigidity weathered in appearance. The selected plant materials
in flowers and results in uniform cell contraction, while can be bleached, then dyed or painted to give them a
the higher moisture in dried flowers leads to flaccid more beautiful and decorative look and can be used as
flowers. Chen et al., (2000) reported that the lower an addition in different flower arrangements.
moisture content results in stiffer and harder petals in 6.1 Air drying
dried flowers. The mechanical support provided by the Air drying is the easiest and most affordable strategy
media throughout the drying process ensures that the for drying. It is also known as the "Upside Down" or
flower shape is maintained as long as the moisture "Hang and Dry" method of drying (Verma et al., 2012).
content is less than 11.55 percent. Furthermore, the In this method, the plant material is appended to rope
moisture content of dried flowers has an impact on or wire and is kept in a hanging position as illustrated
longevity and is inversely proportionate to it (Pandey in fig.1a. Flowers can likewise be spread over blotting
2001). To keep their quality and firmness for more than sheets or newspapers and can be kept in the dark or in
six months, dried flowers must have a moisture content the sun. Flowers of good quality should be selected at
of 8–11.5%. Excessive flower drying resulted in petal an immature stage, peeled off the foliage, and hung
shedding during handling (Singh 2004). Drying below upside down in a warm dark area with good air
8% moisture content leads to the shedding effect, circulation. Flowers take 1-2 weeks to dry, depending
which is related to excessive moisture loss. This could entirely on moisture content, temperature, and humidity
lead to decreased adhesion and cohesion forces in (Kumar et al., 1998). Large flower heads should be
flower tissue, as well as softening of the middle hung individually. Most of the flowers can be dried on
lamella, leading to abscission. their own stems. However, some flowers, such as the
6. Methods of drying strawflower, have weak stems and need a wire to be
Drying of flowers is a method of preservation of inserted before drying to support the flower. Flowers
flowers or the process of disposing of moisture from should be kept in the same position and without touch
the flowers. Dry flowers, form ages, have been the for the next 1-2 weeks for absolute drying. Brown et al.
fundamental part of every household décor. Dry (2013) reported the fleshier the flowers or foliage, the
flowers are dehydrated botanicals and flowers. more time it will take to dry. The stage of harvest is
Anything from flowers to foliage, petals, buds, stems, also important for getting a superior quality of dry
roots, twigs, branches, cones, leaves, ferns, mosses, etc. flower in this method. Strawflower, Globe amaranth,
in a dried form comes under the domain of dry flowers Salvia, Chrysanthemum, and other flowers should be
and can be used in natural, dyed, bleached or preserved picked at the bud stage or partially opened because
forms. The quality and appearance of dried flowers is they continue to open while drying (Smith 1993).
greatly influenced by the method of drying. There are a Susan (1990) reported that flowers with a crisp texture,
number of drying methods by which dehydration of like straw flowers, statice, and so forth, are suitable for
flowers and other botanicals can be done. Some of the this method of drying. This technique is basic and
most commonly used methods are Air drying, Press modest. Yet, the drying period is longer, and such
drying. Embedded Drying in Desiccants, Microwave flowers normally hold straight stems after drying.
Oven Drying, Hot Air Oven Drying, Glycerin Drying, Bryan (1992) found air drying as the easiest technique
Water Drying, Skeletonization. The variety of flowers to dry roses, statice, straw flowers, etc. There are a
and foliage are well dried and respond very well to number of flowers that can be successfully dried by
certain drying methods. Some plant materials, on the this method. However, some of the flowers lose their
other hand, are naturally dry and require little effort to colour in this process and become dark and stiff (Saima
preserve. et al., 2020). Plant materials suitable for air drying with
Naturally dry plant materials an approximate drying time areenlisted in Table-1

Flow chart for Air drying

Harvestgood quality flowers at slightly immature stage
↓
Stripe off the foliage from the lower part of the stem
↓
Tie the selected floral material with rope or with wire
↓
Hang upside down in a clean, dark and well ventilated area
↓
Keep it in a same position and without touch for next 1-2 weeks for absolute drying

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Table-1 Plant material suitable for Air drying with approximate drying time
Plant material Family Approx drying time(days)
Tagetes erecta Asteraceae. 8-9
Rosa indica Rosaceae 10-11
Gerbera jamesonii Asteraceae 10-12
Gladiolus dalenii Iridaceae 9-10
Dianthus caryophyllus Caryophyllaceae 9-10
Xerochrysum bracteatum Asteraceae 6-8
Cosmos peduncles Asteraceae 7-8
Setaria italica Poaceae 7-8
Salvia splendens Lamiaceae 7-8
Solidago canadensis Asteraceae. 7-8
Hydrangea macrophylla Hydrangeaceae, 8-9
Xerochrysum bracteatum Asteraceae 7-8
Thuja occidentalis Cupressaceae 6-7
Gomphrena globosa Amaranthaceae 7-8
Amaranthus caudatus Amaranthaceae 6-7
Centaure acyanus Amaranthaceae 7-8
Limonium latifolium Plumbaginaceae 7-8
Limonium sinatum Plumbaginaceae 6-7
Papaver somaniferum Papaveraceae 6-7
Salvia splendens Lamiaceae 7-8
Helianthus annuus Asteraceae 7-8
Chrysanthemum grandiflorum Asteraceae 6-7
Solidago canadensis Asteraceae 7-8
Acroclinum roseum Asteraceae 8-9
Lilium dalhansonii Liliaceae 7-8

6.2 Pressdrying material in between the heavy books. The duration

Press drying is one of the most established techniques required by the plant material to dry by press drying
utilised and is accepted to have been first reported in varies with the type of plant material and the water
1820. Later on, it was utilised by botanists or herbalists content of the tissue, but it should be completed within
for the preparation of herbariums (Lawrence 1969). four weeks (Sell 1993). Even so, the drying time can be
Pressed and dried plant specimens are useful as reduced if the sheets are kept in the oven at an
teaching aids, reference sources for plant identification, appropriate temperature (Datta 1997). Anonymous
or as decorative material. Press drying is the most (2001) reported that most flowers and leaves are
common method for the preservation of flowers and suitable for pressing except those with bulky centres,
foliage. Press drying involves placing plant material such as succulents and odd-shaped flowers such as
between the folds of absorbent paper and applying daffodils. In that case, it needs to be cut in half and
appropriate pressure until the material is dried. opened out before pressing. Prasad et al. (1997)
Exaggerated imbrications of plant parts and reported that the shape of plant material cannot be
unnecessarily folded leaves should be avoided. The maintained as it becomes flattened because the fresh
pressure can be applied in various ways, such as with material, after pressing within the iron or wooden
the help of a plant press (Fig.1a). The Plant Press is an frame, tends to stick to the paper. The flattened floral
equipment which is particularly designed for botanists material obtained from pressing can be utilised in the
to flatten the plant samples. It is composed of two preparation of various value-added products (Saima et
strong boards, the outer and inner board, provided with al.,2020). However, most flowers and foliage dried by
straps or screws that can be tightened around them to this method retain maximum colour (Saima 2021).
exert pressure. Aside from this, press drying can be Plant materials suitable for press drying with an
achieved by keeping the blotting paper containing plant approximate drying time areenlisted in Table-2.

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Table-2 Plant material suitable for Press drying with approximate drying time
Plant material Family Approx. drying time(days)
Canscora diffusa Gentianaceae 7-8
Leucas stelligera Lamiaceae. 7-8
Gnidia glauca Thymelaeaceae 9-10
Bougainvillea glabra Nyctaginaceae 5-6
Calliandra haematocephala Fabaceae. 9-10
Pentas lanceolata Rubiaceae. 7-8
Ixora coccinea Rubiaceae. 7-8
Lantana camera Verbenaceae. 6-7
Stachyotarpeta jamaicensis Verbenaceae. 6-7
Adiantum pedatum Pteridaceae. 8-10
Cesalpinia pulcherrima Fabaceae 7-8
Plumeria rubra Apocynaceae 6-7
Hibiscus rosasinesnsis Malvaceae 6-7
Ranunculus acris Ranunculaceae 6-7
Pogostemon benghalensis Lamiaceae 7-8
Gypsopilia elegans Caryophyllaceae 8-9
Ipomoea quamoclit Convolvulaceae 6-7
Impatiens balsamina Balsaminaceae 6-7
Jaquemontia pentantha Convolvulaceae 7-8
Eranthemum roseum Acanthaceae 8-9
Gloriosa superba Lilaceae 7-8
Matricaria chamomilla Asteraceae 8-9
Peltophorum pterocarpum Fabaceae 7-8
Belli sperennis Asteraceae 6-7
Delphinium ajacis Ranunculaceae 7-8
Dendranthema grandiflora Asteraceae 6-7
Limonium sinuatum Plumbaginaceae 7-8
Viola tricolor Violaceae 7-8
Iberis umbellata Brassicaceae 6-7
Clerodendron thomsonae Verbenaceae 7-8

Flow chart for Press drying

Select and collect the bright colored flowers & foliage’s
↓
Place the selected plant material in between the folds of an absorbent paper/ news paper
↓
Keep the selected material under press/plant press/heavy books
↓
Likewise make 4-5 rows of absorbent paper containing plant material
↓
Cover the plant press and fasten the screws
↓
Keep the press at room temperature
↓
Change the blotting paper sheets kept in between the plant materialon every alternate dayto avoid
fungal attack.

6.3 Embedded Drying in desiccants air dried. Susan (1990) reported that this method is
Embedded drying is one of the best methods of flower beneficial for delivering flawless life to flowers in both
drying, especially for flowers with a delicate texture form and color. The commonly used desiccants are
and high moisture content that break or deform when sand, borax, and silica gel. As reported by Westland

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(1992), borax showed slight blurring of color and a 6.3.1 Sand as desiccant
harsh petal surface. For delicate flowers like roses, Sand drying is one of the oldest and least expensive
dahlias, carnations, etc., silica gel is the ideal drying methods for the drying of flowers. The sand as a
agent. Christy (1999) proposed that silica gel has desiccant for flowers must be fine, clean, dry, and
significantly extended the varieties of flowers to be preferably salt-free. In this method, a sufficient
dried. Silica gel is light in weight, streams effectively quantity of sand (about an inch or two) is poured in a
and makes it simple to encompass all the parts of the container or in a box, the material of interest is placed
flowers for quick drying. It requires 5-10 days to dry, according to its shape, and the sand is sprinkled around
and flowers not suitable for air drying can be well dried each petal very carefully without disturbing the
with this method. Singh et al. (2003), while testing position and shape of flowers, as shown in fig.1a.
various media such as sand, borax and silica gel, Containers, thus prepared, must be kept for drying in a
concluded that maximum moisture loss was observed warm and well ventilated area for 1-2 weeks.
when the flowers were embedded in silica gel. Gupta et 6.3.2 Borax as desiccant
al. (2005) reported that among four desiccants (viz., Borax as a desiccant can be employed in the
boric corrosive, silica gel, stream sand, and saw dust), dehydration of flowers and can also be used in
silica gel has been discovered to be the best desiccant combination with sand and cornmeal to get better
for eliminating moisture from flowersandfoliage. The results. In this method, borax is poured at the bottom of
flowers dried in silica gel are less deformed and retain the container and the selected flowers are placed
their maximum shape and color. Saima et al., (2020); according to their shape in the proper position as
Saima et al., (2021a). In theembedded drying method, shown in fig.1a, and are then again covered with a
the desiccant is adequately spread at the bottom of the sufficient quantity of borax so that all flower heads get
container, the selected flowers are carefully placed embedded properly in the borax material in the
according to their shape in the proper position, and the container. Containers thus prepared must be kept for
container is then covered again with a sufficient drying in a well ventilated area for 1-2 weeks.
quantity of desiccant, so that all the flower heads get 6.3.3 Silica gel as desiccant
properly embedded in desiccant. Containers thus Although silica gel is an expensive desiccant, it can be
prepared must be kept in a well ventilated area and reused (crystals of silica gel can be dried properly in an
should be observed periodically. Embedding in deep oven at 100-125oC temperature to be reused many
containers can accommodate the plant material without times). In this method, silica gel is poured in a
disturbing the shape and form of plant materials like container with a tight lid, the selected flowers are
chrysanthemum, candytuft, bougainvillea, dahlia, placed in it as shown in fig.1a and are then covered to
gerbera, marigold, and roses, etc. (Bhutani, 1990). The embed in excess silica gel. The containers thus
plant materials suitable for embedded drying with an prepared are kept in a well ventilated area for drying
approximate drying time are enlisted in Table-3. for 5–10 days.

Flow chart of desiccant drying

Take a container and spread the layer of a desiccant on its bottom
↓
Place the flowers in it without disturbing their shape
↓
Cover the flower heads gently with desiccant
↓
Keep the container in a well ventilated area for drying
↓
After drying remove the excess remaining desiccant from flowers gently with a small brush

6.4 Microwave oven drying gypsophilla, and corn flower, etc., are more appropriate
Microwave oven drying works by producing an for microwave drying, while flowers with flimsy,
electronic microwave that releases the moisture from fragile petals or those with hairy and sticky surfaces are
organic substances by agitating the water molecule. It not very suitable for drying in the microwave. For
is a quick strategy, and the product quality is better in example, flowers with thick petals or high water
terms of colour and shape maintenance. Microwave content, for instance, Magnolia, hyacinth, and orchids,
oven drying is not appropriate for all flowers. It is best don't dry well in the microwave. In this method, the
for flowers with numerous petals, like marigolds, roses, flowers are placed in a microwave-safe compartment as
carnations, and zinnia. Thomler (1997) reported that illustrated in fig.1a. Set a little cup of water in the
flowers with bunches of florets, such as goldenrod, microwave prior to cooking to avoid over-drying.

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Drying time differs as per the size and moisture content (for 4-5 hours as setting time, which varies from plant
of the flower. However, plants are typically dried in 2– to plant). Plant materials suitable for microwave oven
5 minutes and the material is kept at room temperature drying are enlisted in Table-4.

Table 3 Plant material suitable for Embedded drying in silica gel with approximate drying time
Plant material Family Approx drying time(days)
Amaranthus caudatus Amaranthaceae 5-6
Alcea rosea Malvaceae 5-6
Aster amellus Asteraceae 5-6
Camellia japonica Theaceae 5-6
Impatiens balsamina Balsaminaceae 5-6
Ranunculus acris Ranunculaceae 5-6
Dianthus caryophyllus Caryophyllaceae 5-6
Gladiolus dalenii Iridaceae 5-6
Gerbera jamesonii Asteraceae 6-7
Tagetes erecta Asteraceae 6-7
Tagetes patula Asteraceae 6-7
Rosa indica Rosaceae. 6-7
Helianthus annuus Asteraceae 7-8
Strelitzia reginae Strelitziaceae 6-7
Celosia cristata Amaranthaceae 3-4
Dendranthema grandiflora Asteraceae 6-7
Lagerstroemia speciosa Lythraceae 7-8
Echinacea angustifolia Asteraceae 6-7
Hemerocallis fulva Asphodelaceae 6-7
Zinnia angustifolia Asteraceae 5-6
Lavendula bipinnata Lamiaceae 6-7
Antirrhinum majus Plantaginaceae 7-8
Dahlia pinnata Asteraceae 5-6
Centaure acyanus Asteraceae 6-7

Table-4 Plant material suitable for Microwave oven drying

Plant material Family Temp & Heating time
Aster ericoides Asteraceae At 45oC for 4-5min
Calendula officinalis Asteraceae At 45oC for 4-5min
Dahlia variabillis Asteraceae At 45oC for 5-6min
Dendranthema grandiflora Asteraceae At 45oC for 4-5min
Rosa indica Rosaceae At 50oC for 6-7min
Callistephus chinensis Asteraceae At 45oC for 3-4min
Dendrobium noblie Orchidaceae At 50oC for 2-3min
Gladiolus dalenii Iridaceae At 45oC for 5-6min
Gerbera jamesonii Asteraceae At 50oC for 6-7min
Helichrysum bracteatum Asteraceae At 45oC for 3-4min
Callistphus chinensis Asteraceae At 45oC for 3-4min
Ixora chinensis Rubiaceae At 45oC for 3-4min
Clerodendron thomsonae Lamiaceae At 45oC for 2-3min
Helipterum roseum Asteraceae At 50oC for 2-3min
Zinnia elegans Asteraceae At 45oC for 4-5min
Delonix regia Fabaceae At 45oC for 4-5min

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Flow chart of Microwave oven drying

Set a little cup of water in the microwave prior to cooking to avoid over drying of flowers
↓
Place the flowers in the microwave safe compartment at 40-45oC for a specified period of time
↓ ↓
Takeout the flowers and keep themat room temperature for 4-5 hours as setting time

6.5 Hot air oven drying higher temperatures (Mayak and Halevy 1980). Half
In this method, the plant material is kept at opened flowers or flowers at bud stage are suitable for
controlled temperature conditions (Bhattacharjee et al., drying in a hot air oven, while completely opened
2003). The flowers are slotted through holes in a wire flowers are not appropriate as their petals free
mesh rack in the oven and are kept at a controlled versatility and strip off effectively on drying (Verma et
temperature for a specified period of time, as illustrated al., 2012). Kher and Bhutani (1979) reported that the
in fig.1a. Time and temperature combinations vary 35-39oC temperature was ideal for Bougainvillea (48
from plant to plant and mainly depend upon the hours), Pompon Dahlias and Narcissus (72 hours). The
compactness and thickness of flowers. Temperature temperature of 40-44°C was found ideal for Aerva
plays a significant part in the drying of flowers and javanica, Euphorbia leucocephala, Delphinium ajacis,
other plant parts by influencing both qualitative and and Mina lobata. This method yields superior quality
quantitative parameters. At higher temperatures, the products with the retention of both shape and colour,
rate of transpiration is comparatively much higher. excluding white coloured flowers, in a shorter time.
With the increase in temperature, the diffusion pressure Saima et al., (2020); Saima et al., (2021b). Plant
deficit of air increases, which stimulates diffusion of materials suitable for hot air oven drying are enlisted in
internal moisture surface and further increases its Table-5.
vaporisation rate, thus leading to high moisture loss at

Flow chart of Hot air oven drying

Place the flowers through the slotted holes in a wire mesh rack of the oven
↓
Set the required temperature of the oven for the drying of selected flowers
↓
Keep the flowers in the same position for a specified period of time
↓
Take out the flowers and keep them at room temperature for sometime
Table-5 Plant material suitable for Hot air oven drying
Plant material Family Temp & Drying time
Antirrhinum majus Plantaginaceae 12(hrs) at 50oC
Anthurium andraeanum Araceae 10 (hrs) at 45oC
Amaranthus caudatus Amaranthaceae 10(hrs) at 45oC
Callistephus chinensis Asteraceae 9(hrs) at 50oC
Dahlia variabilis Asteraceae 11(hrs) at 45oC
Dianthus caryophyllus Caryophyllaceae 11 (hrs) at 45oC
Dendrobium sp Orchidaceae 10 (hrs) at 45oC
Digitalis lanata Plantaginaceae 9(hrs) at 50oC
Dendranthema grandiflora Asteraceae 9(hrs) at 50oC
Zinnia angustifolia Asteraceae 10 (hrs) at 45oC
Zinnia elegans Asteraceae 10 (hrs) at 45oC
Helianthus annuus Asteraceae 12(hrs) at 45oC
Narcissus poeticus Amaryllidaceae 10 (hrs) at 50oC
Ixora coccinea Rubiaceae 9(hrs) at 50oC
Gomphrena globosa Amaranthaceae 10 (hrs) at 45oC
Helipterum roseum Asteraceae 11(hrs) at 45oC
Lilium dalhansonii Liliaceae 12 (hrs) at 45oC
Gerbera jamesonii Asteraceae 12 (hrs) at 50oC
Rosa sp Rosaceae 13-14 (hrs) at 45oC
Tagetes sp Asteraceae 10-12 (hrs) at 45oC

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6.6 Water drying mixture of water and glycerin (Paul and Shylla 2002).
There are some flowers that dry well in water Although this process is generally applicable for
by the process of evaporation (Sushil Kumar et al., foliage. However, certain flowers like ringers of
2021). In this method, the stems of the flowers are first Ireland, statice, hydrangeas, woman's mantle,
positioned in water at a few inches deep where water is narcissus, and rose hips can also be dried (Anonymous
taken up by the fresh flowers to keep the petals intact, 2001). Dana et al. (2002) detailed glycerinisation
as illustrated in fig.1a. The container and flowers asbest methodfor preserving small leaf tree branches
should be kept in a dry, warm, and dark area for 6–10 where glycerine enters the leaves and turns dark. The
days to dry normally. Anonymous (2001) suggested typical drying period is 2-3 weeks. In this method, one
that Hydrangea, Gypsophila, and Alchemilla mollis part of glycerin is mixed with two parts of warm water
should be picked and set in an upright position in a jar (Semant et al., 1993), and the appropriate plant
with an inch of water in the base. When the flowers material is kept in a glycerol water solution at a depth
have utilised all the water, they have dried effectively. of 5 cm, as illustrated in fig.1a. It takes 1-3 weeks for
Plant materials suitable for water drying are Hydrangea complete drying, depending upon the plant material.
macrophylla, Centaurea cyanus, Gypsophila sp., Glycerin serves as a good source for microorganisms,
Celosia argentea, and Moluccella laevis. so a pinch of antibiotic is necessary to prevent
microbial growth in the dried specimens. Plant material
(leaves) suitable for glycerin drying are Ocimum
6.7 Glycerin drying gratissimum, Melia azedarach, Morus alba, Ficus
Glycerin is reported as one of the best osmotic benjamina, Ficus benghalensis, Ficus nuda,Magnolia
reagents, effective for drying while maintaining spp, Eucalyptus globules, Lagerstroemia speciosa,
flexibility, form, and texture. As a result, preserved Aspidistra elatior, Sorbus domestica, Fatsia japonica,
plant material is less brittle than dried plant material, Grevillea robusta, Digitalis purpurea, Camellia
making it less susceptible to shattering and mechanical japonica, Catharanthus sp, etc.
damage (White 2007). Several workers have employed
glycerin drying to preserve leaves for longer periods of
time, as it is comparatively least expensive and has a 6.8Skeletonization
good water holding capacity (Joyce 1998). Several It is well-known that people utilize diverse
types of foliage have been successfully preserved by plant materials for aesthetic purposes by different
immersing leaves or crushed stems in a 33 percent methods. The leaf venations that have been reduced to
glycerol solution. The resultant leaves are smooth and their system of veins can be made to preserve the
flexible (Dana 1983). Westland (1995) reported that unceasing attractiveness of leaves in which both the
preserving foliage and berries in glycerin and hot water qualities of nature’s creation and the enthrall of
solutions introduced them into a nearly everlasting craftiness can be enjoyed. Fantabulous images of leaf
category. Freshly cut statice stems may be preserved by veins can be acquired from leaves from which the soft
soaking in a 1:2 or 1:3 glycerol water solution for 48 tissue is excluded. This procedure removes all green
hours followed by microwave drying for 1 min at a pulp but keeps the veins of the leaf intact, as shown in
medium high temperature (34oC) as same reported by fig.1a. Leaf venation preparation is an art which can be
Dubois (2005). A solution of 10–30% glycerol in water used for beautification and for interior decoration. The
was found to be satisfactory for preserving most of the venation pattern of plant leaves offers a great beauty.
foliage. In glycerin drying, the quality of the product This results from the visual combination of their
was good as moisture in the flower was replaced by a complexity and regularity.

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Even though the variations in morphology have processed skeleton leaves have a deteriorated network
some common features, the leaf venation of of veins. Hence, it cannot be used further in any
dicotyledonous plants usually forms a complex pattern. application because of the damaged structure of
The veins form developed structures which are venations (Saima et al., 2019). In this procedure, leaves
connected to form a reticulum. A skeletonized leaf are boiled for 40 minutes in a solution of 1 teaspoonful
shows high resistance, is flexible, and does not crumble of baking soda or lye per quart of water and are then
easily. Due to their durability, they can be used in rinsed with cold water. The tissue between the veins is
fashion and fine arts, applied to packaging, lining, removed cautiously with the help of a soft brush. The
lighting fixtures, furniture, canvas, glass, fine leaf skeletons thus obtained can be dyed with vibrant
stationary, shop windows and wherever else your colors and can be used for the preparation of different
imagination will take you. They can also be turned and value-added artefacts (Saima 2020). Plant materiasl
twisted into beautiful handcrafted flowers (Saima suitable for the process of skeletonization are heavily
2020). Unlike dry or dehydrated leaves, the skeleton textured and matured leaves (Saima et al., 2013).
leaves show high resistance. The skeletonization of
leaves is a natural process, but it takes a long time to
expose the inner mantle of leaves. The naturally

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7 Bleaching (10%) + sodium silicate (10%) + hydrogen peroxide at

Dry flowers and skeletonized leaves are characteri 70oC (hot) gave the best results for pipal and champa
sed by discoloration due to yellowing or some other with maximum sensory attributes. Saima et al., (2015)
undesirable color. To lighten discoloration, plant reported the effectivity of 20% hydrogen peroxide and
material can be bleached using oxidative and reductive "Ala" (15%) on bleaching of venation skeletons used
bleaching agents or can be sulfured. As oxidative for a maximum of 2 hours. Preethi et al., (2019)
bleaches such as chlorites, hypochlorites, and peroxides recommended 100% sodium chlorite for bleaching of
or peroxy compounds break down colored compounds, dried plant materials like Wedelia trilobata, Clitoria
adding reductive bleaches such as borohydrides and ternatea, Mussaenda luteola, Caesalpinia pulcherrima
sodium sulphide tends to convert them into colorless 'flava', Mussaenda luteola, Hamelia patens, Thryallis
compounds. The chemical property of sodium chlorite glauca, Ixora duffii, Ixora coccinea, Caesalpinia
makes it an excellent bleaching agent, as it selectively pulcherrima, Saraca indica, Cordia sebestena, and
binds to lignin without damaging the fiber. Among Cassiaglauca.
reductive bleaches, zinc or sodium hydrosulfite is
leastexpensive and offer the strongest bleaching power.
The bleached plant material can be immediately 8 Coloring
incorporated into a variety of floral arrangements or Coloring or dyeing is important to enhance the
can be dyed with different colors. Bleaching allows the beauty of dry flowers and other aesthetic products
usage of dyes for the coloring of plant material. The prepared from them. The main disadvantage of dried
plant material leads to choppy shades when dyed botanicals is that the color fades in a shorter period of
without bleaching. Sulfuring is also done to prevent time, so choosing the appropriate dye that can persist
enzymatic discoloration. Sulfur dioxide acts as a for a longer period is important to make flowers and
bleaching agent for colored plant material and, when other products more valuable and appealing. The
used at a particular concentration, can help in the fixing preserved plant material can be dyed with a number of
of colors in a few flowers also (Suhrita et al., 2021). dyes and can be arranged manually.Tampion and
Acidification of the tissues leads to the fixation of Reynold (1971) described three procedures for coloring
color. Sulfuring is produced by burning sublimed the plant material: (i) absorption (cut stems are dipped
sulphur powder or by injecting sulphur dioxide gas (1– in a dye solution), (ii) dusting the flowers (with
3%) right into a sealed chamber. Prior to ventilation of powdered dye), and (iii) dipping the cut blossoms in a
the chamber and subsequent completion of the drying dye solute. When using the dipping method, a few
system, plant materials are typically treated with sulfur drops of washing up liquid or surfactants can be added
dioxide overnight (Verma et al., 2012). In addition to the dye solution to promote contact between the dye
to bleaching with oxidative or reductive chemical tub solution and the plant material and therefore boost
compounds, the plant material may exhibit yellowing. dye molecule diffusion. The absorption process can be
In order to prevent yellowing, the multistep bleaching used to dye carnations, chrysanthemums, star flowers,
method is alternated with reductive bleach. A final gypsophila, and hydrangea. Vat dyes are the best way
rinse with a 2% solution of barium hydroxide, calcium to dye celosia plants at 0.2 percent concentration by
hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, or aluminium sulphate cold process. They also suggested using culinary dyes
may also help to prevent yellowing (Suhrita et al., to dye the dried plant parts, which come in a wide
2021). range of colors and are safe to use. For coloring the
For bleaching dried plants of rose, seeds and pods, dip dyeing and spraying are usually
chrysanthemum, and celosia, 10–30% of sodium recommended.
chloride is an appropriate concentration. Sodium
hypochlorite was also found suitable for bleaching
French marigold and multicolored zinnia. Dried pods 9. Packing and Storing of Dry Flowers
of Acacia auriculiformis, Sesamum indicum, Dry flowers and leaves are delicate and brittle
Gossypium hirsutum, and Pongamia glabra, cones of and require special treatment and preservation. They
Pinus spp. showed the lowest bleaching time of 6 hours should not be handled roughly during transportation
and minimal damage with maximum whiteness index and distribution. The moisture content of dried flowers
and shape retention when treated with 20% sodium frequently affects their shape and form. Lower
chlorite+5% hydrochloric acid (Datta et al.,2021). moisture content leads to stiffness, while higher
Sujatha et al., (2001) found hydrogen peroxide to be an moisture content consequences flaccid flowers.
excellent bleaching agent at room temperature as it The flowers dried in silica gel reabsorb
caused the least damage to cellular tissues and thus was atmospheric moisture and lead to a loss in shape. As a
perfect for bleaching. Marak and Chakrabarty (2013) result, they should be kept in a closed container, such
mentioned that bleaching with sodium hydroxide as glass desiccators, tin boxes, and cartons coated in

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plastic sheet or wax paper, wherein silica gel crystals several forms or arrangements. A selection of interior
are kept at the lowest possible level. The storage design baskets and other whimsical containers are used
packaging containers should be dust-free and protected to enhance any interior design scheme. These
from direct sunlight to hold color. Plant materials dried arrangements form the best décor accents and gifts.
in sand must be stored in a sturdy carton to shield the They add a touch of elegance, enhanced beauty and
petals from breaking. Packaging for fragile dried plant cheerfulness to any office or home. They form a unique
materials should be accomplished manually at some gift that adds an undeniable charm and brings a smile
point of transportation and distribution. The quality of to just about any occasion. Dried flowers, twigs, and
the cartons or boxes for packaging of dried plant grasses also enhance the dried flower arrangements. A
material should always be superior, dust free, and few silk flowers, ribbons, or bows added to the
should be wiped clean every so often. The dehydrated arrangement ensure a more delicate and sophisticated
plant material can always get affected by insect pests, look. There are a number of different dried floral
and these could be controlled by insecticides carried arrangements, including dry flower bouquets, mixed
out within the strong pest strips (dichlorvos), liquid potpourris, bridal bouquets, basket bouquets, swags,
(synthetic pyrethroids, ethyl parathion 0.01%), or garland, dry flower sachets, and dry flower wreaths.
gasoline (methyl bromide, phenyl capsules). The The use of dried flowers has made it possible to enjoy
common fungi affecting the dried plant material are their beauty for several years. One just needs to explore
Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Rhizopus. To prevent the some wild imaginations to get a beautiful, attractive,
desired plant material from such infection, it should be enthralling, and long-lasting piece of dried flower art.
treated with Dithane M-45 (0.2%) before collection Some of the dried flower items are discussed as
(Suhrita et al., 2021). Sulfur burning or sulphur dioxide follows.
fumigation also decreased these fungi throughout
storage. Oulakh and Radha Rani (2018) reported that
specific display packaging substances may be used to Greeting cards
enhance the appearance of the products and, Dry flowers can be used to create beautiful and
additionally, to keep the general quality of the dried artistic greeting cards. The greeting card requires card
flowers for a longer duration. Sharma et al. (2019) paper, as well as a preferred background of matching
reported that most of the score was allocated to plant floral material, which is picked and arranged on the
material dried in a microwave oven and stored covered card paper according to the desired design and
in paper envelopes for as much as a hundred and adhered to it with adhesives. Similarly, this method
twenty days in storage. In case of dyed flowers, most can be used to prepare a variety of other valuable
presentability was discovered in flowers dyed with artefacts.
yellow fabric dye and stored in paper envelopes.

Potpourris
10. Conversion of dry flowers into value added Potpourris is a mixture of dried plant parts
products with a sweet aroma, such as flowers, leaves, seeds,
Dry flowers obtained from different dehydration stems, and roots. A fixative is required for the
techniques (Fig.1b) can be used in the production of preparation of potpourris, as it is responsible for
diverse economically useful products such as artistic absorbing and slowly releasing the aromatic oils.
greeting cards, wall hangings, gift cards, calendars, Potpourris (room fresheners) are becoming
table mats, coasters, candle decorations (skeleton increasingly popular as gifts and personal things.
leaves can be embedded in earring/pendants to make Potpourris can be made from rose petals, gomphrena,
the jewellery more beautiful), different dried flower marigold petals, and lotus pods. For smell, use herbs
arrangements, and floral designs of numerous varieties like artemesia, thyme, sage, rosemary, basil, achillea
with no limits. A dynamic splash of vibrant and breath (yarrow), lavender, scented geranium, mint,
taking dried flowers can be composed beautifully in marjoram, verbena, anise, and fennel.

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Dry flower arrangements flowers and foliage obtained from press drying can be
Dry flowers and foliage can be used for designing used in the preparation of innumerable craft items
specific, charming, and artistic flower arrangements, such as artistic greeting cards, calendars, landscapes,
which can be used for interior decoration purposes. wall plates, wall quilts, visiting cards, photo frames,
They can be arranged in different vases just as fresh- candle holders, handmade paper, lamp shades etc.
cut flowers are arranged. The flowers, including roses, whereas, dry flowers obtained by silica gel drying
statice, straw, paper flower, billy button, nigella, briza, and oven drying can be used in the creation of
brumus, larkspur, roses, lavender, achillea etc., along various flower arrangements for interior decoration,
with dried grass seed heads and pods, are mostly used as the products obtained through these methods are
in dried flower arrangements. superior in terms of colour and shape retention.
Additionally, the skeleton leaves can be used in any
11. Summary dry flower arrangement to add their beauty.
Dry flowers offer significant opportunity to Similarly, dry flowers obtained from other drying
increase a farmer's earnings throughout the year, methods can also be utilised in the preparation of
regardless of the hazardous climatic conditions various value added products. Hence, dry flowers
encountered on open farms. Dry flowers can be have a wide scope of use, especially for unemployed
formed by simple drying methods in which, along youth, housewives, and rural women, as countless
with reduction of water content, the colour and shape valuable items can be made utilising dry flower
of flowers are retained to a maximum extent, so as to technology. It can start up with a limited scale
preserve their beauty and hence their value. The dried industry which can be controlled by women from

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 Report and Opinion 2023;15(1) http://www.sciencepub.net/report ROJ

their homes. Women can work collectively to create [9]. Bryan L (1992) Drying flower and herbs.
numerous profitable craft items and can act Harlexton Publishing Ltd. Linecolnshire (U.K.).
extraordinarily to build up new business sectors. The 48p
dried flower business is a futuristic business model at [10]. Christy Pat (1999) Preparing and selling herbs
an international level, and it’s still an underexplored and dried herbs. Website:
opportunity in the Indian scenario. It is one of the www.cenyc.org/files/citylot/prearngsellingherbs
potential technologies for self-employment and to driedflowers.pdf
empower people. It can be beneficial to physically [11]. ChenW, Gast KLB, Smithey S (2000) The
handicapped people and women, especially to socio- effects of different freeze-drying processes on
economically weaker sections of society. Proper the moisture content, colour and physical
training, awareness, motivation, and funding can strength of roses and carnations. Sci Hortic
encourage the physically challenged, housewives, 84(3/4):321–332
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business opportunity. The technology, skills, and flowers and foliage. Website: www.agrc.wa.gov
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[15]. Datta SK, Gupta Y C (2021) Floriculture and
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acknowledges the Department of Science and
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Technology, New Delhi, India for supporting this
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