favor-“ette”: a peony tip

So now that I’ve reversed my position on peonies, I’m sure you’re going to have lots of them in your garden this year (at least I hope you will!).

And I’ve got a great tip to help you get the most bang for your buck from these short-lived beauties.

peonies

See, here in New York the same things happen every year.  I eagerly await the first little shoots of peony stalks, telling me that spring is finally here. I fastidiously hoop each plant, to ensure that  those top heavy blooms don’t flop right over into the grass the moment they flower. I even manage to snag a few pretties to bring indoors.

And then – we’ll get a rip roaring monsoon which effectively strips every last remaining flower on every single plant.

Peony season – over.

But no more. Because NOW I have a plan.

peonies

Before the stems open, I cut a few with some nice fat buds. I stick them in a plastic bag and store them in the fridge for up to 4-5 weeks. When I’m ready, I take them out and put them in a vase.

Fresh, fragrant (and ant-free!) blooms.

peonies

Give it a try – and have a lovely day!

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6 Comments

  1. Christa the BabbyMama on May 28, 2013 at 9:04 pm

    I love em because they come and go with no help needed from me 🙂 But oh lordy, the ants.

    Maybe, if I can remember, I need to try this.

    • sherisilver on May 29, 2013 at 10:15 am

      This tip resolves the ant problem!!

  2. Jodi on May 29, 2013 at 8:26 am

    Day 1: Blooms open
    Day 2: Rain
    Day 3: Pick-up all petals and broken stems from the ground.
    Day 4: Sigh

    Sheri, I would love an entire rain-free week after the blooms. Can you bottle that and send it to me? 🙂

    • sherisilver on May 29, 2013 at 10:15 am

      I’m on it. 😉

  3. Cris on May 29, 2013 at 9:02 am

    I am intrigued by the peony strategy, but 4-5 weeks in the refrigerator? Really? Can it be shorter length of time?

    Great tip, I will try it since mine have not opened yet.

    Thanks

    • sherisilver on May 29, 2013 at 10:15 am

      You can leave them in the fridge for UP TO 4-5 weeks (sorry about the confusion)!! 🙂

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Hi! I'm Sheri!

Welcome to my little corner of the web where you’ll find easy, delicious recipes, the best kitchen hacks and simple tips for turning your home into a clean haven that is free of toxins. So glad you’re here!