Ever felt a little down when your peonies start blooming, only to think, “I wish I could save these beauties for later”? Well, guess what? You totally can! No, you don’t need a DeLorean or a TARDIS. Just a bit of fridge space and a sprinkle of flower power!
Sounds fancy, right? Actually, it’s as easy as pie (and a lot less messy). Here’s the scoop: you can save your peony buds in the fridge for up to three months! Yes, you read that right. Three. Whole. Months.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Do I need a degree in horticulture for this?” Spoiler alert: you don’t.
So if you have peonies right now, I highly recommend trying this easy technique to enjoy them over the next few months.
As you’ll see below, the process is quite simple.
Step 1: Harvesting the Peonies
To ensure the longevity of your peonies, it’s crucial to harvest them at the right stage. What’s ‘just right‘?
This stage is often referred to as the “firm marshmallow” stage. When you press the bud with your thumb and it feels like a firm marshmallow, it’s ready to be cut.
For single peonies, you can cut them when they’re a bit firmer. However, for fuller, double peonies, let them mature a bit more before cutting. This slight maturity ensures they open up well after storage. Also, cut the stem as long as you can, as you’ll need to trim them again when you remove them from the refrigerator.
Step 2: Preparing the Peonies for Storage
Once you’ve harvested your peonies, the next step is to prepare them for storage. Start by removing all but the top two leaves. These leaves consume energy while in storage, so minimizing their number helps preserve the peony.
Next, lay out a roll of paper towels and place the peony stems on top of it in a single file. Roll the paper towels around the stems like a cinnamon roll. This method helps control the moisture levels around the peonies.
Step 3: Wrapping and Bagging the Peonies
After rolling the peonies in paper towels, place a grocery bag over the top of the roll and tie it loosely. The grocery bag helps retain moisture while the paper towels wick away any excess moisture. This balance is key to preventing the buds from either rotting or drying out.
Additionally, you can place another grocery bag over the ends of the stems. This extra layer of protection ensures that the peonies remain in optimal condition during storage.
Step 7: Monitoring Moisture Levels
Controlling moisture levels is essential for successful peony storage. Too much moisture can lead to rot, while too little can cause the buds to dry out. The combination of paper towels and grocery bags helps maintain the right moisture balance.
Always be vigilant about checking the moisture levels. If you notice any issues, address them immediately to prevent losing your beautiful peonies.
Step 4: Storing in the Fridge
Now that your peonies are properly wrapped, it’s time to store them in the fridge. The ideal storage time is about a month, but with proper care, they can last up to two months.
Regularly check your peonies while they are in storage. I recommend checking them once a week to ensure they haven’t rotted or dried out. If you find any that are going bad, remove them from the bunch and re-wrap the remaining peonies.
Step 5: Conditioning the Peonies
When you’re ready to use your stored peonies, take them out of the fridge and unwrap them. Trim at least two inches off the bottom of each stem. This fresh cut helps the peonies absorb water more effectively.
Place the trimmed peonies in water and let them condition. They should open up beautifully, though they may not last as long as freshly cut peonies. However, they will still provide a stunning display.
Step 9: Enjoying Your Stored Peonies
Once your peonies have conditioned and opened up, it’s time to enjoy them! Arrange them in a beautiful bouquet or use them as focal flowers for special occasions. The effort you put into storing them will be well worth it when you see the stunning results.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, issues may arise during storage. If you find that the peonies are not opening up after storage, it could be due to cutting them too early or improper moisture control.
Re-evaluate your harvesting stage and wrapping technique. Make adjustments as needed to ensure better results in the future. Remember, practice makes perfect, and each attempt helps you refine your process.
Whether you’re planning a peony-filled wedding or simply want to extend their season, this storage method allows you to enjoy their beauty for longer. Happy storing!
