Fresh Cut Peonies

To ensure that your fresh cut peony bouquets remain in perfect condition when delivered to customers’ doorsteps via overnight delivery, it’s essential to provide clear and effective care instructions. Here are the best care instructions to include with your peony bouquets:

Upon Receiving Your Peony Bouquet

1. Unpack Immediately: As soon as the bouquet arrives, carefully unpack the peonies. Check for any damage during shipping and gently remove any packaging materials.
2. Inspect and Trim: Inspect the stems for any wilted or damaged parts. Using clean, sharp scissors or a floral knife, cut about 1 inch off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. This helps the stems absorb water more effectively.
3. Remove Excess Foliage: Remove any leaves that will be submerged in water to prevent bacterial growth. Leaves left in the water can cause it to become cloudy and reduce the vase life of your peonies.

Hydration and Arrangement

4. Hydrate in Warm Water: Place the trimmed stems in a clean vase filled with lukewarm water (around 100°F/38°C). The warmth helps the stems take up water more quickly.
5. Add Flower Food: Include a packet of flower food in the bouquet or recommend the use of a commercial flower preservative. If flower food is not available, you can make a homemade solution by mixing 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar per quart of water.
6. Arrange the Bouquet: Arrange the peonies in the vase, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Peonies tend to open fully over time, so give them space to bloom.

Daily Care

7. Location: Place the vase in a cool location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts. Ideal temperatures are between 65-72°F (18-22°C).
8. Change Water Regularly: Change the water every 2-3 days to keep it fresh. Each time you change the water, re-cut the stems by about ½ inch to help them take up water more efficiently.
9. Monitor Water Levels: Keep an eye on the water level and ensure it remains sufficient. Peonies drink a lot of water, so topping it up daily might be necessary.
10. Avoid Ethylene Gas: Keep peonies away from fruits and vegetables, as they emit ethylene gas, which can accelerate flower aging.

Encouraging Bloom Opening

11. Open Buds: If some buds remain tightly closed, gently wrap the vase and bouquet in paper or place them in a paper bag and store them in a cool, dark place for a few hours. The additional darkness and warmth can encourage the buds to open.

Longevity Tips

12. Cooler Nights: To extend the life of your peonies, place the vase in a cooler room at night, such as a basement or garage, to slow down the blooming process.
13. Mist the Blooms: Lightly misting the blooms with water can help keep them fresh and vibrant. Use a spray bottle with clean water and mist them once a day, avoiding excessive moisture that might lead to mold.

Troubleshooting

• Wilted Flowers: If peonies start to wilt, you can try reviving them by re-cutting the stems and submerging the entire bouquet in warm water for about 20 minutes. Then, return them to a vase with fresh water and flower food.
• Mold or Cloudy Water: If you notice mold or cloudy water, change the water immediately and clean the vase thoroughly. Make sure to remove all submerged leaves and refresh the bouquet’s environment.

By following these care instructions, your customers will be able to enjoy the beauty and fragrance of their fresh cut peony bouquets for as long as possible. Include these instructions with each bouquet to ensure optimal care and customer satisfaction.