1 1/4 C dried rose petals (see Note 1) 1/2 C dried lavender petals 1/4 C cinnamon stick, broken into small pieces 1 tsp crumbled bay leaf 2 tsp orris-root powder* 1 1/2 TBS dried orange peel 3 to 4 drops rose oil (see Note 2) *orris-root powder is a potpourri preservative, available in some drugstores and craft stores.
Mix all dry ingredients together. Add the rose oil one drop at a time and mix well after each drop. Place in tin or covered container and let cure for five to six weeks, stirring occasionally. Makes about 2 Cups
Note 1: If you have your own garden, the rose and lavender flower petals should be picked in the morning after the dew evaporates or in the evening before the dew arrives. Spread petals ouot to dry for eight to ten days, until they no longer feel moist. The quantity of flowers picked will be reduce approximately 50 to 60 percent in the drying process.
Note 2: Potpourri Refresher: After two to four months, when the potpourri scent starts to fade, several drops of the scented oil (either rose, clove or other complimentary scent) will refresh the potpourri for another two to four months. A potpourri can last many years, if the scent is refreshed as needed.
