To dry roses for tea using the air-drying method, you typically dry the whole flowers first and then use the dried petals. This method is simple and effective for preserving roses.
Air-Drying Roses: A Simple Method
Air-drying is a popular way to preserve roses. It requires minimal equipment and is well-suited for drying whole rose heads and stems.
Here's how to do it, based on common methods:
- Select Your Roses: Choose fresh roses that are just fully open. For tea, it's crucial to use roses that have not been treated with pesticides or chemicals. Organic roses from a garden are ideal.
- Prepare the Stems: Gather the fresh roses, ensuring they still have their long stems intact. You may want to remove any excess leaves or thorns from the lower parts of the stems.
- Group the Flowers: Tie the flower stems together. You can use a simple string, twine, or even a rubber band to secure the bundle of roses.
- Find the Right Spot: Hang the tied bundles of roses upside down. The ideal location is a warm, dark, and dry place. Good air circulation is also beneficial. Avoid humid areas, which can cause mold.
- Allow Time to Dry: Let the roses hang undisturbed until they are completely dry. According to the reference provided, this process will take about ten days to two weeks. The roses are dry when they are brittle to the touch.
Once the roses are fully air-dried using this method, you can then gently remove the petals from the dried flower heads for use in tea. Store the dried petals in an airtight container away from light and moisture.
