Preservation of Exacum ritigalensis (Binara / Ginihiriya) Flower Using Glycerin Preservation of Exacum ritigalensis (Binara / Ginihiriya) Flower Using Glycerin

Abstract

Fresh flowers of Exacum ritigalensis are soft and they last for a few hours after removing the flower bunch. So, it is important to find some effective way to keep their colour and freshness. Glycerin is one such agent that can extend the life of cut flowers and keep their appearance fresh and appealing. Exacum flowers pedicels were cut in to one centimetre of length. Glycerin(ml) was used as preserving agent and diluted with water (ml) in different dilution ratios (2:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:0 and 0:1 respectively). They were kept in shade place and colour changes and vase-live with appearance (neutral, good, bad and not useful) were observed in flowers after 24 hours, 48 hours, three day and seven days. Their colour intensities were ranked using five scales (No colour change, less colour change, moderately colour change and drastically colour change). According to the RGB colour chart in blue range, treatments were observed from 20 raters in separate interval times. Experiment was comprised five treatments and each treatment with three replicates. Statistical analysis was performed by Wilcoxon sign rank test using SPSS statics package (version 20). Results showed that less colour change and good flower appearance from glycerin: water (1:1), within seven days.