There's nothing quite like the lush, full blooms of fresh peonies. Whether you're arranging them for a wedding, a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, a little care goes a long way in keeping these beauties at their best.

Like all of our flowers, peonies are not ready to display the moment they arrive. They ship in tight bud form to protect them during transit, and they need time to hydrate and open up. Don't be discouraged by how they look out of the box. The blooming process is part of the magic!

What You'll Need

• A clean vase
• Fresh, cool water
• Floral preservative (optional but helpful)
• Sharp scissors or floral shears
• A sink or bucket of water large enough to swish the blooms

Step-by-Step Care Instructions

1. Unpack promptly. As soon as your peonies arrive, remove them from the packaging and let them breathe.
2. Check the blooms. If the buds are tight and closed, that's perfectly normal. Peonies are often shipped this way to protect them. Look closely for any sticky sap on the petals that may be holding them shut.
3. Dunk and swish. If you notice sap or the blooms feel sealed, gently submerge the heads in a sink or bucket of cool water and swish them around. This loosens the sap and encourages the petals to open naturally.
4. Trim the stems. Cut about 1 to 2 inches off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. This opens up the stem and helps the flower drink more water.
5. Fill your vase. Use clean, cool water and add floral preservative if you have it. Avoid warm water. Peonies prefer it cool.
6. Remove lower leaves. Strip any leaves that would sit below the waterline to keep the water clean and fresh.
7. Find the right spot. Place your vase away from direct sunlight, heat vents, and ripening fruit. A cool room will help your peonies last longer.
8. Change the water every 2 days. Re-trim the stems each time you change the water to keep them drinking well.

Pro Tips

• Speed up blooming: Move your peonies to a warmer spot or place them in slightly warmer water to encourage faster opening.
• Slow it down: If you want your peonies to last longer for an event, keep them in a cool room or even the refrigerator (away from fruits) until you're ready to display them.
• Extend their life with kraft paper storage: Want to buy yourself extra days before they bloom? Wrap the stems completely in kraft paper and tape it securely so the blooms are fully enclosed, then store them in the fridge. This slows the blooming process significantly and keeps them fresh for additional days until you're ready to use them.

How Long Will They Last?

With proper care, fresh cut peonies typically last 5 to 7 days in a vase. Cooler temperatures and fresh water will help you get the most out of every stem.