[Nhcoll-l] Alcohol concentrations for preserving flowers

[Simon Moore]

Hi Gretchen 
This is a tricky one as preservation of fugitive pigments that flowers contain is a bit of a biochemical mixture.  Someone may have experience of this but the slightly oily texture of vodka might be good as a short term preservative. Adding some Bitrex, denatonium benzoate, should discourage anyone sampling! Or use tubes with tight closures?

With all good wishes, Simon 
Simon Moore MiSct, FLS, RRScI, ACR,
Conservator of natural sciences 
Sent from my iPad

> On 7 May 2021, at 21:36, Gretchen Meier <gameier at d.umn.edu> wrote:
> 
> Hi there!
> Is there a recommended ETOH concentration for preserving flowers for later dissection? In a pinch, I've used cheap vodka (about 40%) but I'm not sure I want to bring that into a classroom.  Any suggestions?
> 
> -- 
> Gretchen Meier (she/her/hers)
> Olga Lakela Herbarium (DUL)
> University of Minnesota Duluth
> gameier at d.umn.edu
> 218.726.6542
> 
> Naturum expellas furca, tamen usque recurret - Homer 
> 'you may drive nature out with a pitchfork, but she will come hurrying back'
> 
> 
> 
> 
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