Application of different press drying techniques on dehydration of ten ornamental foliages

Abstract

At present dry flower business is fastest growing industry in India. Diverse and exotic blooms were available in nature, which can be converted in handsome value added products using simple drying techniques. Press drying is a method used to preserve the plants to use on pictures, place cards, stationery etc. Experiment was undertaken with an objective to standardize the different press drying techniques on dehydration of some ornamental foliage. Experiment was laid out in CRD with five replications and eight treatments. Treatments were set based on trial-and-error method for all the foliage. 10 different foliages were used for experiment purpose. From the results of above study, it can be concluded that wooden press found best suitable technique for press drying of Thuja orentalis foliage. Iron press found excellent technique for Ficus religiousa and Caryota mitis leaves. Tiles pressed in microwave oven (720 micro powers) for 2 min found finest technique for Aralia balfouriana, 3 min found appropriate for Lantana camara, Wedelia trilobata, Alstonia scholaris and Polyalthia longifolia leaves and 4 min found ideal for Nephrolepis exaltata and Araucaria excelsa leaves.