We all wish our rose bouquets would last an eternity. But when the petals start falling, keep your chin up. By drying your rose petals, you’ll be able to enjoy them for years to come. Every April & Ashley bouquet comes wrapped in a canvas bag that can be used to keep your dried rose petals – so you can continue to experience their fragrance and beauty any way you choose.
Uses for Dried Rose Petals
Every fallen rose petal is an opportunity to exercise your creativity. From home decor to culinary applications, there are countless ways to use your dried rose petals. A few of these include:
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Crafts - Indulge in some DIY fun by making a dried rose wreath or jewelry. The possibilities are endless!
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Weddings - Use as a natural confetti or to sprinkle down the aisle for that extra touch of romance.
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Rose water - Add to your bathwater for luxurious relaxation.
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Homemade potpourri - Add a comforting aroma to your bathroom or any other space.
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Food & Drink - Yes, rose petals are edible! Add them into a cake batter before baking or play bartender by using them to garnish your cocktails.
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Aromatherapy - Make your own bath salts, essential oils, or rose sugar scrub.
How to Air Dry Your Roses Petals - Step by Step
While there are many methods for drying rose petals, we recommend the natural way – air drying. This is the best way to preserve their shape and color.
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Collect the fallen rose petals, or carefully pluck them from your rose.
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Evenly lay out the rose petals in a single layer on a piece of parchment paper or baking sheet. Make sure the surface is completely clean and dry.
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Place the rose petals in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight.
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Allow the petals to air dry for 8-10 days, occasionally turning them over.
Quick Methods for Drying Your Rose Petals
Although air drying is most effective, we understand you might be eager to get started on your dried rose petal creations. If you just can’t wait, here are a few ways to accelerate the process:
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Use the oven - Preheat the oven to 180-200 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking tray with baking paper and evenly spread out your rose petals in a single layer. Put them in the oven for 15-30 minutes, occasionally turning them over. Allow them to cool before storing.
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Use the microwave - Cover a microwave-safe plate with a piece of paper towel. Evenly lay out your rose petals on top with a little space between each of them. Put them in the microwave for 30 seconds and check the petals. Turn them over if necessary and pop them in for another 30 seconds.
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Silica gel - Silica gel is highly absorbent, allowing your rose petals to dry in a couple days without applying heat to them. Fill a Tupperware or any airtight container with a thin layer of silica gel. Lay your rose petals on top, and make sure they don’t overlap. Cover them with another layer of silica gel. Seal the lid on and leave to dry for 2-3 days.
The Book Pressing Method (2-3 Weeks)
This is a great one for the crafty rose lovers. This method not only dries your petals, but flattens them out. They can be used for decorative art pieces, potpourri baskets, and much more. It’s not the quickest way, but the steps are simple:
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Sandwich your rose petals between sleeves of paper towel or parchment paper.
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Lay them in the middle of a heavy book.
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Gently close the book to make sure the petals stay in place.
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Allow the petals to dry within the book for 2-3 weeks.
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For an extra flattened look, place a heavy object or more books on top of the one that contains your rose petals.
Once your rose bouquet has lived its life, it can continue to brighten your days through its petals. Dried rose petals serve not only as a means of recycling your bouquet, but as a form of creative expression. By drying your rose petals, you’re not just preserving a flower – you’re preserving a memory.
Can’t wait to try it? Head over to collection of roses to browse our selection of freshly-cut bouquets and experience the joy for yourself. And remember to save the canvas bag for keeping your dried rose petals!