Extend The Life Of Your Roses
WORDS : CHYKA KEEBAUGH
PHOTOS : LISA ATKINSON
Is there anything prettier than a vase full of gorgeous roses?
I love having flowers in my home. By now you would have seen every incarnation of a bloom adorning table tops, dining tables, kitchen benches, bathrooms, hall stands - you name it, I’ve put flowers on it! I love having them in my home because their look and aroma truly make me smile. But eventually, when those petals wither - do you throw them in the bin, or do you try and make the most of them?
HOW TO DRY ROSES
Air drying is the easiest way to dry roses but you must do it before the buds open. Simply tie a bunch of roses at the stems and hang them upside down for 6-8 weeks in a cool, dry place. They will take a couple of weeks to dry. Check on them every few days; you want them dry to the touch. Dried flowers can be stored in a sealed container until ready to use.
WHAT TO DO WITH DRIED ROSES
Fill a sachet with dried petals to freshen up your linen press.
Make potpourri
Sprinkle them in a bath
Make a fragrant tea
Sprinkle them inside a gift
Use them as a beautiful alternative to confetti at a wedding
Sprinkle a handful of petals in the fire before burning for a subtle rose scent
EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR ROSES
Cut rose stems on an angle so they soak up more water.
Cut away the excess foliage below the water line to keep the water clean
Dissolve 3 tablespoons white vinegar in 250ml (1 cup) warm water. This provides the sweetness and nutrition roses need to thrive once cut.
This post features an extract from Chyka Home, my first book, an inspirational manual for homemaking, entertaining, styling and crafting. Organised into the four seasons, the book presents creative ideas for entertaining guests and organising and decorating your home, along with tasty food and drinks recipes and DIY outdoor projects. To read more about Roses within the chapter ‘Summer’ in my first book Chyka Home, copies are available via my website.
