Effect of drying techniques and desiccants on anthocyanin retention and quality attributes in lisianthus varieties

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of drying techniques and desiccants on anthocyanin retention and quality parameters in two Lisianthus varieties (‘Rosita clear pink’ and ‘Rosita bright blue’). Flowers were dried using two methods (hot-air oven and shade drying) combined with three desiccants (sand, silica gel and vermiculite) under a factorial completely randomized design. Results revealed that the combination of silica gel and shade drying significantly retained higher anthocyanin content (1.36 mg 100 g⁻¹) and superior sensory scores for colour, shape and texture. ‘Rosita bright blue’ performed better than ‘Rosita clear pink’. The study concludes that silica gel with shade drying offers the most effective drying approach for preserving Lisianthus quality and pigment stability. Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) is a flowering plant known for its elegant, rose-like blooms. Native to warm regions like the Southern United States and Mexico, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. The flowers come in various colours such as white, pink, purple and blue, making them popular in bouquets and floral arrangements. Lisianthus is often grown as an annual and has a long vase life, lasting over a week when cut. Its symbolism includes appreciation, charm and elegance. The plant is valued for both garden beauty and decorative use. A 2024-25 study at the College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, evaluated drying methods for Lisianthus. The flowers dried by using different drying methods and desiccants had significant influence on anthocyanin and sensory attributes.