Peony season is here and I can’t be any happier. I think they are my favorite springtime flower. They are just so … stunning!
We have peonies in the front of our house and some in the back. But the big question I always wrestle with is:
1. Do I leave in the in the yard to enjoy? For our neighbors to enjoy?
2. Do I bring them inside to enjoy on my kitchen counter? (watch out for the ants!)
3. Do I cut them for a centerpiece for a dinner party?
I have to say, it’s a hard decision. I like all of the answers.
This year, I decided to cut and use for our dinner party we had last Saturday night in our backyard.
When to cut peonies
I’ve done my research and peonies are supposed to be cut while still in the bud. IN other words, don’t wait for them to flower (even though they are gorgeous when they start to flower).
The flowers are just starting to bud where the color is showing but the petals haven’t started to open.
I’ve noticed that when I’ve gone to pick my peonies, early morning is best because I can still find the buds not opened.
How to cut peonies
You can take most of the stem when cutting the flowers, leaving some foliage on the plant, or cut all of the stem. If you cut all of the stem don’t do it on every flower. You don’t want to effect the growth for the next year’s growing season. I ended up having to take off the leaves, for my display in tall clear glasses.
How to preserve peonies
If you cut the flowers as suggested above, they will last longer in a vase. They may be a bud for that day, but will probably open the next day.
You can also wrap the peonies in plastic and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them.
I’ve been saving clear bottles and wine bottles. (By the way, use Goo Gone for easy label remover!)
Fill with water.
Line a table.
Wait for the sun to start setting and you’ll have the most amazing table setting ever!
I felt this night was extra special because of my favorite flowers that graced my table.
Don’t you think that flowers can totally change an entertaining space — the mood, ambience, aroma, color?
I find the right flowers to be stunning, and even at times, conversation starters around the table!
In your gardening zone right now, what is your favorite flower that is blooming that you would use for a centerpiece?
Hi, I'm Sandy. Five years ago I stocked up on beautiful glasses from the Dollar Store. As I started writing about dinner parties, I realized that this "icon" portrays a great message. 
I want to share with you some of my favorite places to visit in blog-land, sites that I learn from and am inspired by, and some beautiful friends that I’ve met over the years.
Hi Sandy – lovely table and great advice about the peonies. You are so right about wrapping them in plastic to hold the buds in the fridge. My only additional tip would be to wrap them loosely in damp newspaper or paper towel. You can hold peonies for up to 2 weeks this way – that’s how the professional growers hold them for flower shows.
We’re having a dinner under the stars on Saturday night too. My plan is a woodland theme with ferns tucked into bottles. I’d do peonies but I don’t have enough in the garden this year.
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Twitter: addapinch
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What a gorgeous table, Sandy. Those peonies are beautiful!
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Twitter: elengrey
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A gal after my own heart. I just cut peonies yesterday for indoors. I do an ant inspection and get what I can. There might be more coming in on the G-Pup! I planted a new variety called Bowl of Beauty in my frontscape this year. They are a medium pink with a creamy center. Just beginning to open.
Love your table.
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I love peonies, but how do you get rid of the ants? They are certainly not a welcomed addition to the dinner table.
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Twitter: ConfidentMom
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Thank you for this! My peonies are ready to bust and I never really understand exactly when to cut them to bring them inside. I love their smell and just today will cut a huge bunch to enjoy with your suggestions!
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Sandy,
So pretty. Our peonies bloomed over a month ago…. so sad. I wish we had some to look forward to. Love the table.
Cynthia
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That is a real pretty table, Sandy! Our peonies finished 2 weeks ago and the iris last week. The daylillies and coneflowers are getting ready and by next week will be starting to open. Even the fall bloomers are getting buds on them. I think I finished up the landscaping last week and except for picking up a flat of flowers for a few large pots, I think I am done. The warm weather came early this year and this old body is running a little behind schedule. Hoping to finish up by tomorrow.
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Thanks for the peonie tips! Your table is gorgeous!
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