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Learn how to store dried rose petals and discover the best methods for drying roses, from air-drying to using a dehydrator or oven. Learn the pros and cons of each technique.

We have the most gorgeous & abundant queen of flowers growing right outside our front door. This time of year was particularly abundant for beautiful rose flowers, and so I harvested as many of them as possible. There are several different ways to dry roses. From air-drying, to dehydrating in a dehydrator to  using a conventional oven. Each drying method has its pro’s and con’s. Let’s take a look at all of the ways, and the one that (I believe) is the best way, as well as how to store dried rose petals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple: Drying your own rose petals is super simple. I will show you all the different ways, as well as what I think is the simplest way.
• Money saving: If you have access to roses from an unpolluted, and pesticide-free area, this DIY is a great way to save money on dried rose petals 
• Versatile:Dried rose petals have so many uses in various DIYs as well as for decorative purposes 
• Health Benefits: Rose petals have a number of beneficial health properties. They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, protecting cells and reducing inflammation. They aid in digestion, promote hydration, support detoxification, and enhance mood. Additionally, it improves skin health, alleviates menstrual cramps

Tools

Ways to Dry Rose Petals as Home

1. The Easiest Way: Air Drying Flowers

By far the easiest method that requires no special equipment and can be done anywhere. You start by picking the rose petals off the flowers, and then spreading them out on a flat surface in a dry place, that is well ventiled. When using this method, it’s best to keep the petals out of direct sunlight so that the color doesn’t fade. At room temperature, the petals will take anywhere from a few days to a number of weeks to dry.. Make sure they are completely dry and crispy before storing in a glass container, to avoid mold. 


I like using this method for drying whole rose flowers, that I most often use for home decor. It takes a lot longer for the flowers to be fully dry than with other methods, anywhere between 2-4 weeks. But I find that it works best for a natural look. If you dry whole flowers with the flower stems attached, you can either place them in a vase and allow them to dry or hang them upside down on a string or floral wire. This works great for dried flower arrangements. If you’re only drying flower heads, make sure to place them on a porous surface (such as a basket, cardboard box or a wire rack) to prevent the flowers from molding. 

2. The Fastest Way: Using a Dehydrator 

We just got a dehydrator for the first time earlier this year, and I am pretty smitten. I’ve used it so far to dehydrate all sorts of things, from strawberries to herbs to different flowers. But dehydrating rose petals and rose blooms is by far my favorite for one simple reason: the smell. The whole house is filled with the most pleasant rose aroma that isn’t too strong and yet very pleasant.

3. The Middle Route: Using a Oven

You can also use an oven to dry flowers. While I haven’t done this since getting my dehydrator, I did try it in the past. You simply spread out your flower petals on a cookie sheet, turn your onto the lowest setting it will allow, and keep your flowers in there until fully dry. 

The downside of this method is that you will not be able to use your oven for any cooking for (potentially) many hours while your flowers are drying. There is also a higher chance that the dried flowers will lose some of their color, or before over dry. 

4. Other Ways to Preserve Fresh Flowers

Pressed Flowers: This is a classic method, that is also very easy & produces lovely results. Simply take a blank piece of paper and fold in half. Place your flower petals or whole flower (must be small though) on the inside, to protect your books from staining. Place the folded paper with the flower inside under a heavy book. In a few weeks, you will have a beautifully pressed flower that you can use in decorative DYIs or crafts. 


Microwave: I haven’t personally tried this method, as we no longer own a microwave. However, I believe that you can dry roses in a microwave by covering them with silica gel in a microwave-safe container and heating on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until dry. Let them cool in the gel for 24 hours, then gently remove and store in an airtight container.

FAQ

Tips

1. Choose the Right Roses:

Use fresh roses that are in full bloom or slightly before full bloom for the best results.

2. Remove Excess Moisture:

Pat fresh roses dry with a paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible.

3. Trim the Stems:

4. Avoid High Humidity

Ensure your drying space is dry and has good air circulation. Avoid drying roses in areas with high humidity.

5. Freeze Drying:

If you have access to a freeze drier, this method preserves the color and shape of the roses very well.

6. Store Properly:

Once dried, store rose petals in an airtight plastic container or plastic bags to keep them dry and protected from light.

7. Use Silica Gel Packets:

Place silica gel packets in the storage container to absorb any residual moisture.

8. Handle with Care:

Dried roses have delicate petals. Handle them gently to avoid breaking or crumbling.

9. Check for Mold:

Regularly inspect drying roses for mold, especially if drying in a humid environment.

How to Store Dried Rose Petals

No matter what method you use, make sure to store your dried roses properly so that you can use them for a long time to come! Place your dried petals into glass jars, and keep in a dark place and out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.