SUMMARY. 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.