Rosewater is a specialty product. The Shaker’s routinely used rosewater in skincare and cooking. It’s actually easy to make when the petals are in bloom. The fragrant waters have the lightest, loveliest look and taste. Gardeners can make a long term plan to harvest their own petals with some planning. All rose petals can be used to make rosewater. But, certain rose varieties make a better quality brew.
This photo was taken of the Beach Rose shrubs in midsummer. What once were a few skinny, spiny saplings have grown into a mature and bountiful cluster of shrubs. These hardy plants are happy in this sunny, sheltered corner of the garden. All of June, bees buzzed through the flower clusters and petals were gathered to create a few jars of rosewater.
In homage to what has been given, a layer of rose fertilizer, compost and straw was raked into the sandy soil. The rains have been scarce of late, but the nutrients will find their way around the roots. During times of drought, the rose will go into dormancy to conserve energy. Should beneficial rains return, the rose may blossom out again 🙂
This year, I noticed they are being harassed by pesky Japanese beetles. The neem oil has not been effective. As of this writing, a different plan of attack is in the works.
The rosewater I made in June is almost gone now. This photo shows the light lavender flower and rose petal tea muffins made using the homemade rosewater. I am hopeful the weather pattern will shift and rains will bless the soil soon!
ROSEWATER RECIPE
Fresh or dried Rose Petals – rinsed
Distilled Water
Place petals in glass or stainless steel soup pot. Just cover the petals with distilled water. Bring to a light boil and simmer for 30-40 minutes. Allow to cool. Strain the water into glass jars. Store in refrigerator for six months.
Uses:
Add a splash in tea, water, milk, or other beverages. A little rosewater mixed in with pastries, especially berry dishes is lovely.
Use 1/2 cup in the bathwater or as a final hair rinse.
Two cotton pads soaked in cool rosewater can be placed over the eyelids when taking a rest. The light rose fragrance adds to the simple pleasure of soothing the body.
#herbalways
#rosewater
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