Standardization and evaluation of glycerine drying techniques for leaf preservation in fern leaf tree (Filicium decipiens L.)

Abstract

The present study was conducted during 2024-25 at K.D. CHRS, Jagdalpur (C.G.), under MGUHF, Durg, C.G. to evaluate the economic viability of botanical craft products prepared using glycerine-dried foliage of Filicium decipiens. Twelve treatments were formulated by combining six glycerine concentrations (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%) with two dehydration methods full dip and uptake under a completely randomized factorial design with three replications. Glycerine absorption ranged from 5 to 9 days depending on concentration and method. full dip method enhanced pliability, while uptake method proved more economical. Based on preserved foliage, four botanical products greeting cards, frames, candles, and dhup sticks were developed and evaluated for cost benefit ratio (BCR). The highest BCRs were recorded in 20% uptake treatments: 1:2.40 for greeting cards, 1:1.85 for frames, 1:1.72 for candles, and 1:1.76 for dhup sticks. Treatments with higher glycerine concentrations increased input costs without proportional gains in selling price. The study concludes that moderate glycerine concentrations (20%-40%) combined with the uptake method offer the best balance between product quality and profitability. These findings support the use of glycerine-treated Filicium decipiens foliage in sustainable, small-scale botanical craft enterprises, promoting creative livelihoods and value addition in ornamental horticulture.