The timing of Damask rose harvesting is the most important factor in determining the quality and quantity of essential oil in rose water. Flowers picked during the early hours after sunrise, between 5 and 8 a.m., contain the highest amount of essential oil. During these hours, humidity is high and the ambient temperature is low, helping prevent the evaporation of volatile aromatic compounds. Late harvesting exposes these compounds to direct sunlight, causing them to break down and reducing the aroma of the resulting rose water.
In addition to the time of day, the harvest season is also crucial. Damask roses reach peak bloom from late Farvardin to mid-Ordibehesht. Flowers harvested during this period while they are in the full-bud or semi-open stage have the highest concentration of essential oil. If harvested too early, the flowers have not yet reached chemical maturity; if picked too late, they have already lost part of their essential oil.
Annual weather conditions also affect quality. In years with a mild spring and no torrential rainfall, the flowers are healthier and more fragrant. Heavy rainfall during the harvest period can wash away aromatic compounds from the flowers and reduce the final quality of the rose water.
At our factory, harvest timing is determined under the supervision of experienced specialists and through measurements of essential oil content at different stages. This precision in selecting raw materials ensures rose water with a long-lasting aroma that meets the highest export standards.
