April’s notes on one of our favourite blooms... There’s something about peonies that feels a little like magic. Maybe it’s the way they arrive as tight little buds, almost shy, then open slowly.. generously into soft, fragrant clouds of ruffled petals. Or how they hold space so effortlessly on a table, in a hallway, or by the bedside. Just their presence can soften a room. They’re a favourite here at Florette and we know we’re not alone in that. So, as they start to make their way back into season, we wanted to share a few gentle reminders on caring for peonies, so you can savour their beauty for just a little longer.
Sarah Bernhardt PeonyLet them drink
When your peonies first arrive, give their stems a fresh snip at an angle and remove all the leaves. This encourages them to drink deeply and straight to the head. Place them into cool water straight away and let them settle in.
A clean vase makes all the difference
It sounds simple, but it’s often overlooked, clean water and a spotless vase are everything. Change the water every two days, and give the vase a quick rinse to keep things fresh. Peonies are delicate, they don't like bacteria hanging around.
Coral sunset PeonyCool, calm, and out of direct sun
Peonies love cooler temps. If you want them to bloom more slowly, keep them somewhere shaded and cool (even in the fridge overnight, if you’re feeling committed!). If you're prepping for a dinner party and want them in full bloom, a bit of gentle warmth can help them along. We don't recommend this as you won't get to enjoy their beauty for as long.
Space to bloom
We always give our peonies a little room to open up. Overcrowding the vase can bruise their petals or limit how fully they can unfurl. Let them breathe. Let them stretch.
Keep them away from fruit
One of those lesser-known tips: ripening fruit, especially bananas, releases ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to age faster. If your peonies are wilting before their time, check if there’s a fruit bowl nearby.
Tend to them gently
As days pass and some blooms begin to droop, simply remove them. It’ll help the rest of the arrangement last longer, and it’s part of the ritual- tending, refreshing, letting go.
We love peonies not just for how they look, but for how they remind us to slow down. To notice. To care for what’s in front of us. You will notice as each day goes by, how fascinating it is to watch peonies naturally change colour as they open. A simple detail that makes them all the more special.
Here’s to flowers that bloom in their own time and to making room for beauty in the everyday.
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