It is finally Peony season and as I have a few buckets of these stunning blooms arriving in the shop this week, I thought I would give you a quick guide on how to care for them.
Peonies are one of the most popular and beloved flowers due to their stunning beauty, unique fragrance, and long-lasting blooms. However, when these flowers are cut and brought inside, proper care is necessary to ensure that they thrive and remain fresh for as long as possible.
When you purchase Peonies, you will sometimes notice the flower bud is very hard and sometimes has a sugary nectar coating it – the first step you need to take is to gently rinse the bud under some clean, lukewarm water to clean off this residue as it can prevent the petals from opening.
The next step is to remove any leaves that will be submerged in water to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae, which can quickly deteriorate the flowers.
Next, find a clean vase, fill it with fresh water and add some floral preservatives to the water. These powders or drops (that should come with your flowers) contain nutrients and antibacterial agents that help to keep the flowers healthy and vibrant.
The final step in caring for cut Peonies is to cut the stems at an angle, which allows the flower to absorb water better. You can cut the stems underwater to prevent air bubbles from forming and blocking the flow of water, which can quickly dehydrate the flowers. If this isn’t possible, just aim to get the stems in water as soon as you have cut them, before they start to dry out.
The water should be changed every two days, and the stem tips should be recut each time to ensure maximum water absorption. If you notice that the ends of the stems have started to turn brown, make sure this part is cut off completely.
It is important to remember that peonies are sensitive to heat, so avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source. Cooler temperatures can also extend the life of cut Peonies, so consider placing them in a cooler part of the room to help them last even longer.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your cut peonies remain fresh, beautiful, and fragrant for as long as possible. Enjoy the stunning beauty of these beloved flowers long after they have been cut from the garden or bought from your local florist.
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