Question

Hygroscopic chemicals that help to maintain the suppleness of dried plant material are known as :

• A. Polysets
• B. Silica gels
• C. Humectants
• D. Potpourris

Hint:

Humectants = Moisture retainers. They keep dried flowers from becoming stiff and fragile.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Humectants are hygroscopic substances that absorb moisture from the air. In floral and plant preservation, humectants help to retain the suppleness and flexibility of dried plant material by preventing it from becoming brittle.
(A) Polysets – Incorrect. Not related to moisture retention in plant materials.
(B) Silica gels – Incorrect. These are drying agents, not used for maintaining suppleness.
(C) Humectants – Correct. They attract and retain moisture, keeping dried materials pliable.
(D) Potpourris – Incorrect. These are scented mixtures of dried plant material used for fragrance, not moisture retention.