Homemade Potpourri That Looks as Lovely as It Smells

If you’ve visited my website before, you know I love anything that brings beauty and intention into everyday living. One of my favourite little rituals? Making potpourri. It’s simple, satisfying, and fills your home with scent in the most natural way.

How to Make Potpourri: A Natural Way to Freshen Your Home

Whether you’re using dried flowers from your garden, herbs from the kitchen, or a few store-bought ingredients, homemade potpourri is a lovely way to add fragrance and style to your space.

Personal Note: If you’re drawn to the slow rhythm of seasonal living and the beauty of natural scent, I’d love to introduce you to my sister site, Simmer & Stir. It’s a gentle space filled with simple recipes, herbal DIYs, and mindful rituals for scenting your home naturally—think simmer pots bubbling with citrus and spice, calming potpourri blends, and botanical brews for your tea or tipple. Whether you’re craving a moment of stillness or a new way to connect with the seasons, there’s inspiration waiting for you there.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a basic list to get you started:

Dry Ingredients (pick a few):

• Dried flowers – rose petals, lavender, chamomile, calendula

• Citrus peels – dried orange or lemon slices

• Herbs – rosemary, thyme, mint, sage

• Spices – cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise

To Add Scent:

• Essential oils – lavender, sweet orange, bergamot, patchouli, cedarwood (pick what suits your mood or season)

• Fixative (optional but helps scent last longer) – orris root powder or a few tablespoons of Epsom salt

How to Make Potpourri at Home: 5 Easy Steps

1. Dry your botanicals

   If using fresh petals or herbs, let them air-dry for a few days until they are fully crisp. This prevents mould and helps the scent absorb more effectively.

2. Combine ingredients

   In a bowl, gently mix your dried flowers, herbs, citrus peels, and spices.

3. Add essential oils

   Add 10–15 drops of essential oil per cup of dry mix. Stir well and let it sit covered for 24–48 hours, allowing the scent to infuse properly.

4. Optional: Add fixative

   A tablespoon of Epsom salt or orris root powder helps anchor the scent and makes it last longer.

5. Display beautifully

   Transfer to a pretty bowl, jar, or sachet. Please give it a little stir now and then to refresh the scent.

How to Make the Scent Last Longer

• Use a fixative (Epsom salt is my go-to)

• Store in a lidded jar for 1–2 days before displaying

• Keep it away from direct sunlight and radiators

• Refresh with a few extra drops of essential oil every week

Homemade Potpourri That Looks as Good as It Smells

A beautiful bowl makes all the difference when displaying your potpourri. Have a look here on Botanical Blueprint. I create hand-cast concrete accessories — from minimalist bowls to elegant trays.

Small Concrete Bowl With Herbs and Dried Flowers

These pieces add a calm, earthy feel to any room, and they pair perfectly with your handmade potpourri. Think: natural scent + tactile, stylish form.

Whether it’s a footed dish in your hallway or a small bowl on your bedside table, your potpourri deserves a home that feels just as intentional.

Final Thought

Making potpourri is about more than fragrance — it’s a slow, grounding ritual. So next time you’ve got a spare moment, gather your petals and herbs, find a bowl you love, and let your home fill up with gentle, natural scent.

Homemade Potpourri: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does homemade potpourri last?

It typically lasts around 1–2 months, depending on the ingredients and storage conditions. You can refresh it with a few drops of essential oil as the scent fades.

2. Do I need to use a fixative, such as Epsom salt?

No, but it helps! A fixative helps retain the scent for longer, especially when using essential oils. If you don’t have orris root, Epsom salt is an easy alternative.

3. Can I use fresh flowers instead of dried ones?

It’s best to dry your flowers first to avoid mould. If you use fresh ingredients, your potpourri won’t last as long and may spoil quickly.

4. Which essential oils work best for potpourri?

It depends on the mood you’re going for! Lavender, sweet orange, and rosemary are lovely for relaxing blends. Try cinnamon or clove for cosy, autumn vibes.

5. What’s the best way to display potpourri?

Use a shallow bowl or dish in a place where it won’t be knocked over. I love using my handmade concrete bowls and pots — they’re neutral, modern, and let the natural textures shine.