Effect of Drying Conditions and Embedding Materials on Post-Harvest Quantitative Parameters in China Aster (Callistephus chinensis) Flowers

Abstract

The study was undertaken to optimize conditions for dry flower production in China aster flowers. The experiment was conducted with eight treatment combinations consisting of two drying conditions viz., room drying (C1) and sun drying (C2) and four media viz. Sand (M1), Sand:Borax (1:1) (M2), Borax (M3) and Silicagel (M4) with factorial concept in completely randomized design. Per cent weight loss and moisture loss were signiflcantly higher under sun drying and silicagel during the entire process of drying from first day to fourth day. Moisture content was higher under room drying and borax from first day to fourth day.

Keywords

• China Aster
• Drying Conditions
• Embedding Media.