The global floriculture industry is witnessing remarkable growth, propelled by the vast potential for both domestic consumption and the export of flowers. Among the internationally traded cut flowers, roses stand out as a key player in terms of both production and consumption. To harness the increasing demand and augment farmers’ income, value addition has become imperative.
In alignment with this objective, a factorial experiment was conducted in 2020, employing a completely randomized design. The study aimed to examine the impact of various drying methods and desiccants on the sensory and quality parameters of roses during the drying and storage phases. The findings unveiled significant variations in the quality of dried roses based on the chosen drying methods and desiccants. Shade drying emerged as the superior method, displaying favorable quality parameters such as vibrant color, well-maintained shape, smooth petal texture, and reduced mechanical damage during the drying process.
Throughout the storage period, shade-dried roses with sea sand exhibited attributes of vibrant color, smooth petals, and minimal mechanical damage. In contrast, sun-dried roses with silica gel showcased well-preserved shapes and fewer instances of pest and disease issues. Considering all aspects and the obtained results, it was evident that shade drying with sea sand proved to be the most effective approach for achieving desirable quality parameters during both the drying and storage stages.
Introduction:
The thriving floriculture business demands value addition to maximize the economic benefits of flowers. Among the highly produced and consumed cut flowers, roses stand out as a prime choice in international trade. Known for their beauty, fragrance, and symbolic significance, roses hold a prominent position in the floriculture industry and are highly sought after for various purposes, including decoration, gifting, and perfume production.
Roses come in a diverse array of colors, sizes, and petal shapes, offering numerous options for different preferences and occasions. With global appeal, roses continue to be top-ranking cut flowers in international trade, both in terms of production and consumption. The versatility and market demand for roses make them a valuable asset for floriculture businesses, offering significant potential for value addition and contributing to the growth and profitability of the industry.
Despite the use of optimal chemicals to improve the shelf life and enhance the vase life of cut roses, their storage capacity remains limited. Additionally, the season of availability poses challenges in utilization. To maximize business potential, exploring alternative uses and value addition for other ornamentals has become crucial. Increasing the availability of flowers throughout the year and enhancing the longevity of several flowers through the utilization of dry flower technology is a holistic approach. Drying is a crucial process in preserving flowers, enabling their extended utilization for decorative purposes, fragrance production, and other applications.
However, improper drying methods can lead to significant quality degradation, including the loss of color vibrancy, fragrance, and overall aesthetic appeal. Therefore, it is essential to explore and assess different drying techniques and desiccants to identify the most effective approach for maintaining the drying quality of roses.