Rose petals can be a beautiful decoration for weddings, parties and table decorations. Try using rose petals as soon as you pick them. However, if you don't use it right away, you can store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
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Method 1 of 2: Using Harvesting Techniques to Keep Petals Fresh
Step 1. Pick the petals from a fresh rose
You will need to use very fresh roses if you want to harvest the petals. If you are harvesting your own roses, make sure the plants are hydrated before you cut them. To do this, water the plant the night before you cut the flowers.
Step 2. Be sure to cut off the young flowers in the early hours of the morning before it gets hot
Use a sharp knife to cut the stems. A neat cut will allow the stem to absorb water better than a rough cut from a blunt tool.
Try making diagonal cuts instead of square ones. This will increase the area of cell tissue so that the stem can absorb more water
Step 3. Avoid harvesting roses right after it rains as the petals will become damp
It is very important to store rose petals dry. If this is unavoidable, spread the petals on a clean dry towel after harvesting and gently pat dry.
Step 4. Allow the cut flowers to cool until you are ready to pick the petals
Place the flowers in a clean container of cold water such as a vase until you are ready to use them. You should place the vase in the coolest position possible. Cool sheds and garages can be good choices; at least keep the vase away from direct sunlight.
You should keep the vase away from electronic devices such as TVs because they can radiate heat. Try changing the water every day
Step 5. Pick the petals from the flower that is still in bud
Try using flowers that are still slightly budded than those that have already bloomed or that are about to fall off on their own. But do not use flowers that are too buds and tightly closed. Flowers should be slightly open.
Method 2 of 2: Using the Refrigerator to Keep Petals Fresh
Step 1. Pick the petals from the flower
Gently shake the flower to remove insects and damaged flowers or petals. To pick the petals from a rose:
- Gently hold the flower bud just below the petal.
- Press the base just below the petal and gently twist the stem to release the petal. Handle it very carefully so that the petals are not damaged.
Step 2. Wet a paper towel
Take a paper towel or paper towel, fold it a few times, and dampen it a little. The tissue should be able to hold water like a sponge without dripping. Place the wet paper towels in a clear plastic bag or plastic freezer bag (usually one with a lid).
Alternatively, you can use a tupperware container or some kind of plastic box such as an old butter or ice cream container. Just make sure the container you use is clean and dry
Step 3. Place wet paper towels at the bottom of the bag or container
Place the rose petals on paper towels. Don't stuff it in a bag or box as it can damage the petals. Use multiple bags or boxes as needed.
There should be air circulation around the rose petals; this will help prevent the petals from rotting
Step 4. Close the bag using a zip lock or box lid
Gently place the bag into the refrigerator. Place the container with the rose petals on a separate shelf so that other things don't fall on them. You can stack the bags on top of each other but make sure the bags are not too heavy.
Make sure the lids don't touch any part of the refrigerator as this can cause them to freeze. For example, don't let the lids touch the back wall of the refrigerator, as sometimes these areas can get cold and they will freeze the lids. Freezing will cause the petals to swell
Step 5. Remove the bag daily until you use it
It is very important to remove the bag every day. Gently shake the bag and turn it over. This will prevent the petals from sticking together and help circulate air in the bag.
Step 6. Store the petals for three to seven days
Sometimes fresh rose petals can last for more than a week in the refrigerator but try removing them before more than seven days. Ideally, you should use the rose petals immediately after harvesting them.
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Try using the petals within three days of you picking them from the flower.
Keep Rose Petals Fresh Step 11Bullet1
Step 7. Consider drying the rose petals after you use them
After using it in an event, you can dry the petals for use in potpourri. Spread in a single layer in a dark, dry place for about two weeks. Once dry, put the petals in a clean, dry jar. Add a few drops of rose-scented essential oil.
Shake the jar every few days for a month before adding it to the potpourri
Tips
- If you're saving rose petals for an important event like a wedding, consider experimenting a few weeks in advance to see how long you can store them.
- Try to keep the petals on the rose plant as long as possible. The best way to store rose petals is on a rose plant! The best way to harvest it is at the end until you want to use it.
