Our FAQs
Freeze drying is the most perfect method of preservation. Most botanical items (flowers, foliage, fruits, and vegetables) can be preserved with little change in shape, color or fragrance.
The botanical items are frozen and then placed under a deep vacuum. Under these conditions, moisture in them (in the form of ice crystals) will sublimate directly into water vapor, which then migrates into the condenser and is removed from the system. When sublimation is complete, the freeze-dried botanicals can be removed.
There are several indicators of a load being dry from a freeze dryer. One of the indicators that a load is done, is when ice quits forming in the condenser.
Botanique freeze dryers dry most types of flowers in 10 – 12 days. The answer depends upon many variables, such as type and quantity of product.
Yes! Removing the water too fast may cause blistering, shrinkage and shriveling.
Yes! The drying time is extended due to their density and water content.
Yes! Part of our training course delves into this area.
No! The quality of the end product is primarily determined by what you start with – “garbage in, garbage out.”
No. The machine requires only basic cleaning and an oil change after each load.
This depends on the size of the freeze dryer. Take the amperage requirements, listed in the specifications, to your electric company for a quotation.
Yes and No. It is a good idea to have someone check the machine each day and record temperature and vacuum readings, check the vacuum pump oil level, and run a defrost on the condenser, if necessary.
It takes approximately two minutes to record the daily information, and the defrost cycles takes 30-45 minutes to complete.
We use Non-CFC refrigerants. They are environmentally safe and readily available throughout North America.
Freeze dryers need to be in a climatically controlled facility. An ideal temperature would be in the range of 70º F to 80º F and a relative humidity of 50% or less. Consider air conditioning, heating, and dehumidification when placing a freeze dryer in a garage.
Yes! Botanique is very involved in both freeze drying research and pre- and post-treatment chemical research. All ongoing research information is made available to Botanique customers.
Yes! Botanique Preservation Equipment has partnered with Knightbridge Equipment Capital as a financing option. Knightbridge works with start-up and existing businesses. Knightbridge has a 96% approval rating working with clients.
Botanique freeze dryers are delivered to your location on a truck with a lift gate for unloading. They are placed in a shipping crate with a built-in ramp for rolling the unit out of the crate.
Call Rich and Dan at Botanique. They have assisted hundreds of individuals who have started new floral freeze- drying businesses or incorporated freeze drying into their existing businesses.
Questions?
Do you have follow-up questions after reading the FAQs? Do you have a question that was not answered? Just want to learn more about the floral preservation business? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are always here to answer your questions!