How to Dry Rose Petals

Rose petals pulled from flower stem for teas and crafts

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Project Overview
  • Working Time: 15 - 30 mins
  • Total Time: 2 - 3 days
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Estimated Cost: $0 to $15

If you have purchased rose petals from an herbal supplier, you know that the cost can be prohibitive. Instead, harvest rose petals from the bushes growing in your yard to dry and use them in herbal tea mixes, soaps, potpourri, sachets, or as decoration. They are delicate, so handle your roses carefully from start to finish. Read on to learn how to dry rose petals.

When to Harvest Rose Petals

For the best scent, harvest rose petals straight from a newly opened flower bloom rather than waiting for them to fall off naturally. Blossoms that have been open for more than a day or two will have less of a scent and flavor. Pick the petals in the midmorning after the dew has evaporated but the ultra-hot midday sun hasn't yet appeared.

Warning

If you plan to consume the petals, do not harvest them from flowers that you buy from the florist, as they have likely been treated with pesticides. No matter what your florist says, those roses are just for viewing, never ingesting. If you want to dry florist rose petals, they should only be used for decorative purposes.

How to Dry Rose Petals

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Pruners
  • Drying screens
  • Dehydrator or microwave oven (optional)

Materials

  • Flower petals
  • Paper towels (if needed)

Instructions

  1. Clip Flowers, Pluck the Petals

    Use pruners to cut off a flower that is either in full bloom or just prior to opening. Use your fingers to gently pluck off petals, one at a time. Remember that the stems are thorny, so use care to avoid pricks.

    Lay the petals in a single layer as you gather them. They can start to become mushy and break down in minutes if you make the mistake of placing them in a hot and dark place, like an herbal harvest bag.

    Rose petals pulled from flower stem

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

  2. Lay Out the Petals

    Arrange the petals on absorbent paper, so they don't touch each other. A screen also works very well, but remember that once dried, rose petals will blow around easily. To avoid this, place a second screen on top to carefully sandwich them.

    Pink rose petals laid on paper towel

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

  3. Dry the Petals

    After separating the petals from the flowers, dry them in one of these ways:

    • Dry the rose petals in the shade, as the direct sun will quickly fade the petal color.
    • You can also dry rose petals in a dehydrator. Set the appliance to the lowest heat setting—around 95 degrees Fahrenheit, if possible—to ensure that the petals dry without burning.
    • Spread the roses over a paper towel placed on a microwave-safe plate and place it in a microwave oven. Microwave for two minutes and check to see if the petals are fully dry. If not, microwave for an additional 30 seconds at a time until they are fully dry
    Rose petals laid on paper towels to dry in sun

    The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Tips for Using Dried Rose Petals

Once dried, you can store your roses like any other dried herb, taking care that no light reaches the petals. If you are using a glass jar, keep it inside a dark cupboard. There are many ways you can use your dried rose petals, including:

  • Herbal Teas: Since they have little to no flavor after they are dried, adding roses to a tea mixture is just for visual pleasure. Add with a light hand and blend well.
  • Rose Water: Combine 1/3 cup of dried rose petals with 2/3 cup distilled water and 1/3 cup witch hazel. Let it infuse for two weeks, and then strain out the petals. Use it as a facial spray or linen spray. You can also create rose oil.
  • Decor: You can make lovely ornaments with dried rose petals. Use them to coat Styrofoam balls that have been dipped in glue. These can be a nice addition to the holiday tree with a natural theme.
  • Soapmaking: Make rose petal soap to sell or give as gifts. Rose essential oil is often added for fragrance.
  • Herbal Sleep Pillows: These small herbal pouches filled with rose petals and rose essential oil can be placed inside the pillowcase of a favorite pillow.
rose infused tea and soap
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
FAQ
  • How long do dried rose petals last?

    The amount of time that dried rose petals will last depends on many factors, but if handled delicately, rose petals can maintain their color and shape for two to three years.

  • How do you preserve rose petals?

    There are multiple ways to preserve rose petals. A popular method is to store them within silica gel.

  • Will dried rose petals attract mold?

    If the rose petals are truly dry, they should not attract mold. Store them in a dry place.

  • How do you dry rose petals without turning the petals brown?

    Fresh rose petals tend to change color when they are exposed to light. So if you are simply hanging your harvest, be sure to do so in a dark room.