Pick fresh rose petals and elderflowers. Look for those that are ripe and in good condition.
Distribute the wild roses and elderflowers on the dehydrator trays.
Set the dehydrator to around 35°C/95°F as higher than that can reduce flavour and nutrients.
Place the trays in the dehydrator. The drying process takes between 8-12 hours or longer.
The rose petals and elderflowers should feel dry and crisp when touched.
Once they are completely dry, remove the trays from the dehydrator and allow to cool completely.
Store the dried rose petals and elderflowers in airtight containers or glass jars in a cool, dark and dry place to preserve their flavour and freshness.
Now you can use your home-dried rose petals and elderflowers to make tea or other recipes as needed.
Place a teaspoon of dried elderflowers and a few rose petals in a tea bag and pour boiling water over them. Let the tea steep for 5 minutes and flavour with sugar (if needed).
You can choose to make a pure elderflower tea, a pure wild rose tea or, as in this recipe, make a mix.