All roses are edible (provided they haven’t been treated with chemicals), so don’t let those pretty rose petals go to waste! Dry them out using a variety of methods and make use of them.
There are several methods for drying out rose petals that you can try. Some are more reliable than others, but if you need them quickly, there are some great options to attempt at home. All you would need for some of these are a microwave, or an oven!
First – Collect your petals
Visit your roses, and collect up any petals that you might want to use.
ONLY use the petals of flowers that have not been sprayed with pesticides, particularly if you plan on ingesting them.
Always rinse them in lukewarm water to make sure there isn’t any debris or insects on them, then let them dry out a little.
Method 1 – Dry your rose petals out in the oven
Preheat your oven to 80°C, then line your baking tray with baking paper.
Spread your rose petals out in a single layer, not touching each other.
Pop them on the bottom shelf of your oven for 15-30 minutes, checking them regularly and turning them over.
Once they are crisp and before they lose their colour, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool before storing.
Method 2 – Dry your rose petals out in the microwave
Cover a microwave-safe plate in kitchen roll, and scatter your rose petals over the top, making sure they aren’t touching.
Then pop the plate in the microwave for 30 seconds intervals.
After every 30 seconds, check your petals, and turn them over if you think they need it.
Once you think they are dry enough, they are done! I found this took about 3 minutes of 30 second intervals.
Be careful when removing the plate, as it will be hot after this length of time!
Method 3 – Wait for your roses to air-dry naturally
Known to be the most effective method is air drying your rose petals.
Spread them in a single layer on a mesh surface, and store them away from direct sunlight and breezes.
Try to find a ventilated, low-moisture space. Turn them twice a day so they dry evenly, and quickly.
They should be dried within a week! Store all of your dried petals in a clean, airtight jar or container until you are ready to use them.
What can you do with dried out rose petals?
There are a lot of different options for using your dried out rose petals. Now that they are dried, they will keep for a long time, so you can save them for when you need them! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Rose Tea
- Light-tasting, fruity, and low in calories
- Need 500ml of water; 2 tablespoons of dried rose petals; and raw honey is optional
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, place the rose petals. Cover with water and bring just to a simmer
- Simmer for approximately 5 minutes, or until the petals become discoloured (darkened)
- Remove from the heat and strain the hot rose petal liquid into teacups
- Add honey for a sweeter taste
Confetti
- This one is pretty easy
- Once you have dried up your rose petals, pop them into little bags so they are easy to grab at
- You can use fresh petals, but dried petals are less likely to wilt throughout the day
- These are great for celebrations like engagement parties, weddings, proms, and more!
- Just throw them in the air and watch them flutter down
- They are ideal and good for the environment, as they are completely biodegradable
Cooking
- Rose petals are typically used for decoration as they are beautiful and food safe
- Commonly used in Middle Eastern dishes, most notoriously Turkish delight – makes lovely pairings with saffron, honey, dried apricots, cardamom, and coffee
- Things you can add dried rose petals to:
- Grains – mixed in through biryanis, pilaus, couscous etc.
- Decoration for your baked goods
- Add to ice cube trays with water before freezing
By drying out your rose petals after your blooms have finished this summer, you can enjoy their lovely colours for months by drying them out with ease.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
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