One of my favorite flowers is Peony. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they have an amazing scent that fills a room with a smile. I started my obsession with Peony several years ago with one plant about 15 years ago.

Not wanting to lose it in our move, I actually dug up the plant and replanted it in our new home. Within the last couple of years, I have a new adoration for Tree Peony.

A lucky recipient of 3 small plants several years ago, has proven to be a windfall in gorgeous flowers in the spring. I had so many this year, I decided to share How to Properly Cut Peony Flowers to Bring Indoors.

HOW DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE OF THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PEONY?

If you don’t know the difference between an tree peony and the more common peony, definitely read peony blog. Not only they bloom differently, they require different pruning and care. 

Unlike herbaceous peonies, which die back each year, tree peonies are taller and retain a permanent framework all year round.

 

How to Properly Cut Peony Flowers to Bring Indoors

Before heading out to cut your Tree peonies know that stems should be cut short, less than two inches, to avoid cutting off what will become next year’s woody stem and flowers. They can be floated in large glass vases and bowls making an incredible statement on any table.

I did not follow this but only took a few flowers from each plant so I hope it will still produce as many flowers next year. 

You also want to have a container of sugar water or a little sugar mixed in tepid water. Not too cold and not too hot. Immediately place the cut flowers into the sweetened water so they can absorb the energy. 

If you want to cut some buds, be sure they feel like marshmallows and not hard.

 The later will not open for you and you sacrificed that stem for next year. See above. 

Once you bring them in, you can arrange them in a vase or floating in a shallow vase. My peony flowers buds opened and closed slightly at night and reopened in the morning.

 

I am so grateful for my friend who shared the volunteer plants from her mom’s house and wishing you the same amount of success. 

 

HOW TO CUT Herbaceous Peonies to Bring INDOORS

For the summer peony, or herbaceous, you don’t want to cut more than a third of their flowers. Also always check for ants, they love these summer blooms.

1. Timing is important: The best time to cut peonies is when the buds are soft and have just started to open. If you wait too long, the flowers will start to droop and lose their petals.
2. Cut the peonies in the morning: Peonies are known for their large, fluffy blooms, but they can be a bit delicate. To ensure that your cut peonies last as long as possible, try to cut them in the morning before the heat of the day has set in. This will help the blooms retain more moisture and stay fresher for longer.
3. Choose the right stem: Look for a stem with a healthy bloom that has not fully opened yet. Make sure the stem is strong and not damaged. Cut the stem at an angle using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears.

4. Cut the stems at an angle: Once you’ve selected your peonies, it’s time to cut the stems. Use sharp, clean scissors or shears to make a diagonal cut on the stem, just below the flower. This will create more surface area for the peony to take up water, which will help it stay hydrated and fresh. If you can, cut the stems under running water to prevent air from getting into the stem and blocking water uptake.

5. Prepare the stem: Once you have cut the stem, remove any leaves or thorns that will be below the waterline in your vase. This will help prevent bacteria growth and keep your flowers fresh. Place the stem in cool water and let it sit for a few hours before arranging it in a vase. You can also add floral preservative to the water to help extend the life of your peonies.

Pin this when you are ready to learn How to Properly Cut Peony Flowers to Bring Indoors

 

TIPS TO CUT PEONY 

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