Rose Flowers

Botanical Name: Helianthus
Cultivation: Partial Shade to full sun in well drained soil
Colors: Red, Orange, Pink, Yellow, White
Uses: Decorative, ornamental and medicinal uses
Regions: Indian Ocean Regions, South Africa, Germany, Widely distributed in a range of climatic and geographic conditions.

Cultivation of Rose Flowers
Rose Flowers prefer a site in full sun, but will be successful in partial shade, especially if the sun is during afternoon. The best of soil will be free-draining, slightly acid and medium in texture- neither sandy nor clayey. They are tolerant plants. During digging, sprinkle the soil with a good amount of rose fertilizer or general purpose fertilizer.

Drying of Rose Flowers
Rose Flowers can be dried by three methods:

Air-Drying
Allow the roses to open to more of a full bloom as opposed to drying them when they are still buds. Strip the bottom part of the leaves for easier handling. Stagger the roses so that they are not clumped together. Spray a light mist of spray on each rose and then hang them upside down in a warm and well ventilated place to dry.

Dessicant Drying
Take a airtight container and put silica gel crystals in it. Place the roses on the layer of gel in a manner that the blooms face up. Cover them carefully with more of dessicant and then seal the container. Keep it at room temperature for about 10 days. After 10 days carefully remove them from the dessicant.

Microwave Drying
Cut long stems for this type of drying. Lay the flowers on moisture free paper and put micorowave on the lowest setting. Place the paper in the microwave and keep checking to prevent over cooking.

Uses of Rose Flowers
Rose Flowers are the most preeminent and beautiful dreid flower for adding joy, love and grace to flower arrangement. Dried flower wreaths are embellished with the dried roses. Dried rose petals are often more accepted by churches and reception halls. They can be used to enhance vases, baskets, plaques, and shadow boxes. They also may be used as wall decorations or as decoration son gift boxes.

They are used to make delightful potpourri. Red roses, when dried turn a rich burgundy color and look lovely in a ginger jar, candy dish, or antique canister. These potpourris can be added to the stuffing of pillows or are hung in the pomanders in a closet. Small sachets can be made out of it and can be given as gifts to friends and loved ones.

One can also make confetti cones and tea with dried petals. These petals have an essential oil in it which is healing and soothing. The dried hips of wild rose are especially high in vitamin C and have long been used to prevent scury. Infusion of dried rose petals are used for headaches and taken after meals to aid digestion. They make a good anti-inflammatory remedy for the eyes or any other inflamed area of the body.