Protocol for Preparing Preserved Flowers with Natural Color and Texture

A protocol for the preparation of preserved flowers retaining natural color and texture of ‘Moondust Velvet Blue’ carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) was developed. This three-step process consists of soaking flowers in ethyl alcohol, then soaking them in polypropylene glycol, followed by a rinse with ethyl alcohol. Some kinds of flowers processed in this manner retained their natural color and texture for at least 6 months. The physicochemical properties of appropriate solvents used for retaining natural pigmentation and texture are discussed. This protocol is applicable to 13 kinds of flowers among 30 kinds of flowers tested and adds a new dimension to postharvest techniques for cut flowers.