The Kitchen Ingredient You Need For Longer-Lasting Cut Peonies
If you're a fan of peonies, you know how amazing they look and smell, making them an excellent choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. But it's always such a letdown when they start wilting soon after you cut them. Luckily, there's a super easy trick to keep them looking fresh and gorgeous for a lot longer. Just add some sugar to the water, and you'll be able to enjoy your beautiful bouquet for days on end.
When peonies are freshly cut, they continue to "drink" water through their stems. However, by being severed from their roots, they're cut off from their natural supply of nutrients, causing them to droop and lose their vibrancy. Sugar acts as a food source for the blooms, providing them with a much-needed boost of energy. It also encourages water and nutrients to move into the flowers, helping the peonies stay well-hydrated and refreshed. With this simple trick, you can revel in the delightful charm of the flowers in your home for even longer periods of time.
Using sugar to prolong peonies' freshness
To preserve cut peonies, make a sugar solution by dissolving sugar in water — adding approximately 1 tablespoon of sugar per quart of water. You can also combine the sugar solution with other ingredients for an extra boost. A couple of tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice, and even a tiny amount of bleach (about 1/4 tablespoon) can be added to the sugar water, as they have additional benefits in preventing bacterial growth and maintaining the water's clarity. However, proper measurements of these additives are crucial, as too much can harm the flowers.
You can prevent bacterial growth and keep the solution fresh by changing the water every other day. When you change the water, trim the ends of the peony stems at an angle. This will help with better water absorption and remove clogged or slimy stems, promoting healthier growth. Carefully remove wilting flowers and any fallen petals from the vase to improve the appearance and prevent any decaying matter from contaminating the water. Keep the flowers away from direct sunlight, as excessive heat can cause them to droop.