A Florist's Guide to Caring for Cut Peonies
Peonies are beloved for their lush blooms and enchanting fragrance. To ensure your cut peonies remain breathtaking throughout their display, follow these essential care tips.
Selecting Fresh Peonies
Choose Buds: When selecting cut peonies, opt for those that are just beginning to open. Tight, firm buds will bloom beautifully when properly cared for.
Check for Damage: Avoid any stems that show signs of browning, wilting, or bruising. Healthy leaves should be dark green and free from blemishes.
Preparing the Stems
Trim the Stems: Upon bringing your peonies home, cut approximately 2-4 cm from the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water uptake.
Remove Foliage: Strip any leaves that will be submerged in water to prevent rot and bacterial growth.
Arranging Your Peonies
Choose a Suitable Vase: Use a clean vase large enough to accommodate the blooms without overcrowding. Ensure it complements the aesthetic of your peonies.
Water: Fill the vase with lukewarm water, as it helps to dissolve air bubbles in the stems more effectively than cold water.
Flower Food: Adding a commercial flower food to the water can extend the life of your peonies by providing essential nutrients.
Placement
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Position your arrangement in a cool area, away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and draughts. This will help prevent wilting and prolong their freshness.
Cool Environment: Ideally, keep your peonies in a room with a temperature between 18-22°C.
Daily Care
Change Water Regularly: Replace the water every two days to keep it clean and free from bacteria. Re-trim the stems slightly each time to assist with water absorption.
Inspect for Wilting: Remove any petals or foliage that start to wilt or decay to maintain the beauty of the arrangement.
Final Tips
Hydration: Be mindful that peonies can drink a considerable amount of water, especially in the first few days. Ensure the vase is always topped up.
Humidity: If possible, increase humidity around the flowers, as peonies thrive in slightly humid environments. A gentle misting with water can also help.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the full splendour of your cut peonies for as long as possible, bringing joy to any occasion.
