Comprehensive Post Harvest Technology Of Flowers, Medicinal And Aromatic Plants

India has varied agro climatic zones to produce all types of horticultural crops from tropical to temperature types. The post harvest losses are estimated to be 20 - 30 % due to poor post harvest practices of flowers, medicinal and aromatic plants. Complete information on post harvest technology of flowers, medicinal and aromatic plants is compiled in this book. Understanding the post harvest physiology and causes for deterioration are very essential for extending the shelf life of flowers. Part I includes pre harvest factors, harvest factors, post harvest factors on the quality and vase life of flowers, post harvest physiology, causes for deterioration, post harvest handling of important flowers and management of flowers. It includes right stage of harvesting, preservation, processing, value added products, packaging and storage of flowers. Part II and III includes post harvest handling of important medicinal and aromatic plants, right stage of harvest, processing, extraction of bio active compounds from medicinal plants and distillation of essential oil from aromatic plants. This book will give comprehensive information about post harvest aspects of flowers, medicinal and aromatic plants to farmers, growers, entrepreneurs, scientists, industrialists, students and general public. This book is useful to the under graduate and post graduate students and students those who prepare for competitive examinations.