What Types of Rose Petals are Best for Potpourri?
Any variety of rose petals can be used to make potpourri, but those from organic and fragrant roses like ‘Pink Knock Out®’ roses are highly recommended. Rose thyme and rose-scented geranium leaves can also be added to enhance the fragrance.
Fresh rose petals have a strong, floral scent, but when dried, they retain a mild yet pleasant fragrance. Adding essential oils like rose essential oil can further enhance the scent.
What is the Best Way to Dry Rose Petals for Potpourri?
Rose petals can be air-dried by spreading them on paper towels over a baker’s cooling rack or a screen. This method takes about 2-3 days in a warm and dry place. Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator, but air-drying is sufficient and effective.
How Much of Each Ingredient Should I Use?
- Dried Lavender: Add about 1/2 cup of dried lavender to 2 cups of dried rose petals for a balanced scent.
- Herbs and Spices: You can include other herbs like rosemary (about 1/4 cup) and spices such as ground cloves and cinnamon (about 1/8 teaspoon each).
- Essential Oils: Use 20-30 drops of rose essential oil or rosewater concentrate. You can also add a few drops of citrus essential oils like orange or lemon to balance the scent.
- Fixative: Add about 1/4 teaspoon of orris root powder to help fix the fragrance and prevent it from fading quickly.
How Do I Prepare and Store Potpourri?
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Drying the Rose Petals: Pull the petals off the roses and spread them out on a screen or paper towels over a baker’s cooling rack. Let them dry in a warm and dry place for about 2-3 days.
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Preparing Other Ingredients: Dry other ingredients like lavender, rosemary, and orange peel separately using the same method. Remove any woody stems from the herbs.
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Mixing the Potpourri: Combine the dried rose petals, lavender, rosemary, and other ingredients in a bowl. Add the essential oils and mix well. If using orris root powder, add it at this stage.
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Storing the Potpourri: Transfer the mixture to a Mason jar or an airtight container. Cover the mouth with Saran wrap and store the jar in a cool, dark place for 6 weeks to allow the scents to blend. After 6 weeks, transfer the potpourri to a decorative bowl or sew it into small sachets for use.
What are the Estimated Costs and Where Can I Source the Ingredients?
- Rose Petals: The cost can vary depending on whether you grow your own roses or purchase dried rose petals. If purchasing, it can range from $5 to $15 per cup of dried petals, depending on the quality and source.
- Essential Oils: Rose essential oil can be expensive, ranging from $20 to $50 or more per ounce. However, rosewater concentrate is a more affordable alternative.
- Other Ingredients: Dried lavender, herbs, and spices are generally inexpensive, with costs ranging from $2 to $5 per cup.
- Recommended Suppliers: You can source high-quality ingredients from local health food stores, herbal shops, or online retailers like Amazon or specialty craft stores.
Reference:
[1] The Gardener Wife: Making Rose Potpourri
[2] Chemistry Cachet: Homemade Rose Petal Potpourri
[3] Dried Flower Craft: Make scented rose buds for potpourri
[4] The Spruce Crafts: How to Make Rose Petal Potpourri
