Photo by Robert Pelletier
Pretty peonies
The lush blooms of plump peonies clustered together make for a delightful bouquet
Few flowers are as sensual as peonies with their satiny petals, comely forms, pure colours and alluring scent (particularly the double whites and pinks). They’re even edible. Long-lived in the garden, they make long-lasting bouquets, especially loosely placed in a wide-mouthed container so their plush blooms aren’t squashed.
Pick peonies in the soft bud stage—they should feel like marshmallows. Leave at least three leaves per stem on the plant and don’t pick more than half the blooms from any one bush. Recut the stems under warm water and remove the lower leaves before arranging. The flowers should open within a day and last for 10 if kept cool with regular changes of water.
**Tip:** Before bringing peonies into the house, give them a good shake, and swish the flowers in a pail of water to dislodge any ants. The ants do no harm; they are simply after a nectar secreted by the peony buds.
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