How to Store Peony Buds in the Refrigerator to Enjoy Later in the Summer

Peonies are one of the most beloved flowers, known for their lush, fragrant blooms. But their season is fleeting, leaving many gardeners wishing they could extend their beauty beyond spring. The good news? You can store peony buds in the refrigerator and enjoy their blooms weeks—even months—later!

Choosing the Right Peony Buds

Not all peony buds are ideal for storage. The key is to cut them at the right stage:

  • Look for buds that are showing color but haven’t fully opened.
  • The bud should feel soft like a marshmallow when gently squeezed. If it feels like a marble it is too early; if it’s too open, it won’t store well.

BUT

  • Single, Japanese, and Anemone type flowers open more easily and should be cut firmer than the soft bud

  • The single style flowers are best cut when the buds are about to show a line of color, but still hard.

How to Store Peony Buds

Follow these steps to keep your peony buds fresh for later enjoyment:

1. Cut the Stems Properly

  • Using sharp garden pruners, cut the peony stems to your desired length (typically 12-16 inches).
  • Leave some foliage on the plant to ensure it continues storing energy for next season.

2. Remove Excess Leaves

  • Strip most of the leaves from the stems to reduce moisture loss and prevent decay.

3. Wrap the Buds

  • Wrap each stem completely in clear plastic wrap, sealing both ends tightly. This helps retain moisture and prevents dehydration.
  • Alternatively, some gardeners use newspaper to wrap the stems. Peony stems wrapped in newspaper for storage in the refrigerator.

4. Store in the Refrigerator

  • Place the wrapped peony stems horizontally in the refrigerator.
  • Keep them in a frost-free fridge for up to three months.
  •  It’s best to avoid storing peonies near fruits and vegetables, especially ethylene-producing ones, like apples and bananas. Ethylene gas can hasten the wilting process in flowers. If possible, keep them in a separate compartment or a dedicated floral storage space.

Reviving Stored Peonies

When you’re ready to enjoy your peonies:

  1. Remove them from storage and trim the stems.
  2. Place them in tepid water in a cool area.
  3. Allow them to rehydrate, and within a few hours, they should start to bloom.
  4. Enjoy their beauty for about a week!

Final Thoughts

With this method, you can extend your peony season and enjoy their stunning blooms long after spring has passed. Whether you’re saving them for a special occasion or just want to brighten up your home, storing peony buds in the refrigerator is a simple yet effective trick.

Sources  https://www.houseofhawthornes.com/storing-peonies-to-bloom-later/

https://www.bvintagestyle.com/how-to-make-peony-flowers-last-for-months/

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/storing_peonies_to_bloom_at_a_later_date