Bloom Bar: Simple Winter White Peonies

I love a fabulously, overflowing and colorful arrangement, I do. But sometimes you just need simplicity. A few pretty blooms in a small vase, unfussy and still completely satisfying. Being so full and lush, Peonies can stand on their own and look oh-so-good doing it. I’ve been enjoying these pretties for the last few days and wanted to share some tips for how to make fresh cut Peonies last longer.

1. If you’re buying them from a flower market or grocery store, make sure to pick ones that have not yet bloomed and are completely closed up. It won’t take long for them to bloom!

2. Give them a fresh, 45 degree angle cut. During summer months, if you have them in your flower garden, cut them in the early morning while it’s still cool and immediately submerge the stem in cold water. Re-cut again inside before arranging in your vase.

3. Cut all leaves that will sit below the water line to avoid bacteria contaminating the water.

4. Make your own flower food. Per quart of water, add 2 tablespoons each of sugar and lemon juice. Changing the water and solution every day or two will help the flowers last longer.

5. Try to keep your blooms in a cool spot. Heat will make them bloom more quickly. You can also keep them in the fridge at night (if you have room!) to keep them fresher.

*Photo by Yours Truly