Drying rose petals - this is how it's done

Rose - drying the leaves of the flower queen appropriately

Which varieties are suitable?

The entire rose family gives us petals that are ideally suited for this type of preservation. However, if possible, they should come from fresh flower heads and smell intensely.

Five different methods

Air drying
Pressing between book pages
with dry salt or detergent
Drying in the oven
Microwave drying

Air drying

Spread the rose petals on absorbent kitchen paper.
Put the leaves in a warm place. A sheltered place outdoors is ideal.
Turn the leaves occasionally.

Tips

If the petals fill in softly, they have not yet lost all of their moisture. You must continue drying, otherwise there is a risk of mold.

Pressing between book pages

A few petals can also be dried by pressing. The advantage here is that the dry rose petals stay flat.

Place the leaves between two layers of kitchen paper
individual petals should not overlap
only then press between book pages
This absorbs moisture
the book pages stay clean

With dry salt and detergent

Dry salt and dry detergent absorb moisture from the environment, and consequently also from rose petals.

Put some dry salt or dry detergent in a large jar.
Spread a layer of petals on it, then desiccant, etc.
The last layer should consist of the desiccant.
Leave the jar closed for four days.

Tips

If you keep drying petals, silica gel is worth getting because it can be used over and over again.

Dry in the oven

Drying in the oven is inexpensive and quick:

Set the oven to 40 degrees Celsius.
Spread a thin layer of sand on the baking sheet.
Sprinkle the petals on it.
Let the rose petals dry in the oven for 30 minutes.
Check the result and extend the time by a few more minutes if necessary.

Leaves dried in the oven retain their fragrance and the wavy flower shape is enchanting.

Microwave drying

Drying in the microwave is simple and, above all, quick.

Place a sheet of paper towel on a flat plate.
Spread a few petals on it.
Put another layer of kitchen paper on top, followed by another plate.
Place the plate in the microwave for about 40 seconds at maximum power.

durability

Dry rose petals that are kept in a sealed container have an "unlimited" shelf life. Of course the ravages of time gnaw on them and they lose more and more of their fragrance. Exposed rose petals gather dust over time and are regularly replaced with new ones.