Cultivation and Harvesting

The art of cultivating and harvesting the Damascene Rose is a process that requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of this remarkable flower’s needs.
Cultivating the Damascene Rose is a labour of love that has been perfected over generations. It thrives in specific conditions, preferring well-drained soil, moderate temperatures, and ample sunlight. Cultivators carefully select the ideal location, prepare the soil, and ensure proper irrigation to create an environment where the Damascene Rose can flourish.
Pruning plays a vital role in shaping the growth of the Damascene Rose. Skilled hands delicately trim the shrubs, removing dead or weak branches to promote healthy growth and encourage abundant flowering. This meticulous process allows the rose to showcase its full splendour, with robust blooms and strong, vibrant petals.
The blooming season of the Damascene Rose is a magical time, as the garden is transformed into a sea of delicate roses. It is during this period that the petals are harvested, a task that requires precision and care. Each blossom is carefully plucked by hand, ensuring that the petals remain intact and undamaged.
Once the petals are harvested, they undergo a process of distillation to extract their precious essence. Traditional distillation methods, often passed down through generations, involve heating the petals and collecting the steam, which is then condensed to produce rose oil (rose otto). This highly sought-after oil captures the essence of the Damascene Rose, with its exquisite fragrance and therapeutic properties.
Another valuable product derived from the Damascene Rose is rose water. By steeping the petals in water and distilling the mixture, a fragrant and versatile floral water is obtained. Rose water has been used for centuries in perfumery, skincare, culinary arts, and even as a refreshing beverage.
The process of cultivating and harvesting the Damascene Rose requires patience, knowledge, and a deep respect for nature. It is a testament to the dedication and expertise of those who preserve this ancient tradition, ensuring that the beauty and essence of the Damascene Rose continue to captivate and inspire.

Let us be like the rose, in love’s sweet trance,
Dancing with the wind, in a passionate dance.
For in the fragrance of this divine bloom,
The soul finds solace, dispelling all gloom.