An innovative perspective on the establishment, development, and management of damask rose gardens in East Azerbaijan

Damask rose is one of the most valuable and famous medicinal plants worldwide. Its essential oil, rose water, and dried flower buds are exported. Essential oil can be used in the perfumery, cosmetic, and therapeutic industries and is widely used in depression treatment and traditional medicine. In the northwest of the country, in the provinces of East Azarbaijan, West Azarbaijan, Ardabil, Zanjan, and Hamedan, the damask rose is known as Qizil Gul. It has a special place in the lives of the region's people. 10% of the cultivated area of this product in the country is allocated to East Azerbaijan. More than 60% of it is produced in Osko City. Due to the high added value and economic profitability of the rose, it is recommended to develop the cultivation of native varieties of rose in East Azerbaijan province. Also, investing in processing industries leads to new job creation. In addition, rose cultivation with native varieties protects and controls floods. It also prevents soil erosion and preserves and strengthens medicinal and rangeland biodiversity.