Peony Care Guide: How To Care For Peonies

Are you as crazy about peonies as we are? If so, then you know how absolutely stunning they are as cut flowers. There's nothing quite like a vase filled with gorgeous, fluffy peonies to brighten up your day.

However, as with any cut flowers, peonies need some extra care to keep them looking fresh and vibrant for as long as possible. In this blog post, we're going to share with you all our best kept secrets for caring for cut peonies.

From choosing the right vase to troubleshooting common issues, we'll cover it all. So let's get ready to show those peonies some love and keep them looking beautiful for days on end..

Preparing the vase & water

The first step to caring for cut peonies is getting their home ready - that is, the vase and water. When it comes to the vase, we always choose something that's going to complement the beauty of the peonies without overpowering them. Think simple and elegant!

And before you add any water, make sure you give the vase a good wash to remove any dirt or bacteria that might be lurking inside. Now, onto the water - this is where the magic happens! we often like to add a sachet of flower food to the water to give our peonies a little extra boost.

Cutting peonies

Using sharp scissors or pruning shears is critical when it comes to cutting peonies. You want to avoid using dull tools, as they can crush the stem and damage the delicate vascular system of the plant. This can prevent the flower from getting enough water and nutrients, leading to wilting and even drooping or petals falling off.

Time to give those peony stems some TLC. Grab your trusty scissors and let's dive into the art of trimming and conditioning. Before you immerse them in water, it's essential to give those stems a fresh trim.

At an angle

Grab your scissors and snip the stems at a slanted angle. Why slanted, you ask? Well, it's like giving them a fancy haircut, allowing them to drink water more efficiently and strut their stuff in the vase. Oh, and don't forget to remove any foliage that might take a dip in the water.

Any leaves left in the water will cause bacteria build up and make your fresh peonies wilt much faster. Once you've trimmed the stems, it's time for some conditioning. Place those freshly cut stems in warm water, giving them a spa-like experience to quench their thirst and revive their vitality.

So, let's trim, condition, and pamper those peony stems, setting the stage for a magnificent floral display.

Placing the peonies in a vase

Now that you've cut your beautiful peonies and got your vase and water ready, it's time to arrange those blooms and get them into the vase! The first thing to do is remove any foliage or thorns that will be submerged in the water - this prevents bacterial growth and ensures your water stays clean.

Next, it's time to arrange your peonies in the vase. Personally, we love a big, bold bouquet, but you can also arrange them in smaller, more delicate groupings. It's all about finding what looks best to you!

Finally, be sure to place your vase in a location that's not too hot or too cold, and away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will help your peonies to stay happy and healthy, and looking their best for days to come.

Changing water & maintenance

As much as we'd like to keep those peonies looking fresh forever, unfortunately, they won't last forever. However, with a little bit of maintenance, you can extend their lifespan by a few more days!

The first thing you'll want to do is change the water in the vase every 2-3 days. This will keep the water clean and prevent bacterial growth. While you're at it, you can also trim the stems again at a slight angle to create a fresh surface for the flowers to drink from.

Additionally, you can add more flower food to the water to give your peonies an extra boost. And here's a tip: if any of your peonies start to wilt, you can cut the stem and place it in boiling water for a few seconds, then transfer it to cold water to revive it. It's like magic! So, with a little bit of care and maintenance, you can keep your peonies looking fresh and beautiful for longer.

Peony problems & solutions

As much as we wish it weren't true, sometimes even with the best care, our peonies can run into some problems. Here are a few common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Drooping peonies

If your peonies start to droop, it could be a sign that they're not getting enough water. Try changing the water, cutting the stem at a slight angle, and adding more flower food. If your peonies start to wilt, it could be a sign that they're getting too much direct sunlight or heat. Move the vase to a cooler location, away from any heat sources or direct sunlight.  

Opening up stubborn peonies

Now, it's time to unleash your peonies hidden beauty and watch them bloom before our very eyes. Some peony stems can sometimes be a bit stubborn and slow to open up.

Sometimes we want them to open up faster to look their best for a dinner party or a special occasion. But how do we coax those buds to open up and reveal their mesmerizing petals? We've got a few gentle techniques to nudge them along.

1. Misting the peonies

Try misting the buds with a spritz of water or placing them in a warm room to create a cosy atmosphere.

2. Massage the bud heads

Another way is to give them a massage. Yes, you read that right. Gently massage the buds in circular motions and this will help them unfold their petals and open up for you.

3. Sunlight & heat

Place the peonies in direct sunlight or in a warm room. This is another great way to help those beautiful petals to unfold.

All peonies are different

Unlike most flowers, peonies belong to a few flower types that you can never really predict how they will open, if they will open, if they bloom, for how long they will bloom, etc. It is simply impossible. And this fact might also be the very reason why we love them so much, they got personality. But, always keep this in mind when ordering your fresh bunch, so disappointment is avoided. 

Making your peonies last longer

Once our peonies have opened up, we want them to last as long as possible. First things first, check the water level in your vase daily, making sure it's always at the right height to quench those thirsty stems. Change the water every 2-3 days to keep it fresh for your peonies.

Now, here's a fun trick: gently spritzing your peonies with water every now and then. Reviving their delicate petals and adding a touch of dewy freshness. And if you notice any wilted or drooping blooms, don't fret! Simply trim their stems a little and pop them in a separate vase for a charming solo performance.

Remember, our dear peony caretakers, with a little love and attention, your peonies can stay vibrant and beautiful for days on end. So, keep those stems hydrated, offer them a spritz of love, and embrace the art of peony maintenance.

Conclusion

We hope you're feeling inspired, enlightened, and ready to embark on your peony care adventures! We've learned how to pamper our peonies, coax them open with patience, and keep them looking fabulous for as long as possible. So, fellow peony enthusiasts, go forth with confidence, armed with the knowledge and passion to care for these remarkable blooms.

Whether you're adorning your home with their splendour, surprising loved ones with stunning bouquets, or exploring the world of peony crafts, may the magic of peonies continue to bring joy and enchantment into your life. Remember, the love and care we pour into these magnificent flowers will be rewarded with astounding beauty and unforgettable moments.