Potential of Underutilized Flowers for Dried Floral Applications: A Comparative Evaluation of Different Drying Methods

This study investigated the potential of selected underutilized ornamental flowers for dried floral applications in Sri Lanka by comparing the effects of six drying techniques on their physical and ornamental quality. Five flower species, namely, Ixora coccinea, Plumeria rubra, Petrea volubilis, Bougainvillea spectabilis, and Holmskioldia sanguinea, were subjected to air drying, press drying, silica gel drying, sand-borax drying, hot air oven drying, and microwave oven drying. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed among the techniques for moisture loss, colour retention, texture, shape, brittleness, and overall quality. Results revealed that both drying methods and flower species significantly influenced the drying time and product quality. Microwave oven drying consistently achieved superior overall quality, less drying time, and better colour preservation in most species, while silica gel and hot air oven drying showed species-specific suitability. Among the flower species, B. spectabilis and H. sanguinea demonstrated the most favourable combination of physical and ornamental attributes after drying. These findings indicate that microwave oven drying and silica gel drying are the most effective and market-preferred methods for producing high-quality dried flowers in Sri Lanka, demonstrating strong potential to enhance the country’s value-added floral industry.