December Peonies – Rare Winter Blooms Delivered Fresh for Holiday Events

Care & Handling for December Peonies

December peonies are a rare seasonal gem, shipped fresh from cool-climate farms where they are grown specifically for winter availability. To ensure these premium blooms open beautifully and last through your event, proper hydration and care are essential—especially during colder months when handling conditions can vary.

What to Expect on Arrival

Your peonies will arrive in tight, ball-shaped buds. This stage is ideal for shipping and guarantees freshness. After hydration, the blooms will gradually open into large, full blossoms—often expanding to the size of a hand.

Step-by-Step Conditioning Instructions

1. Unpack Immediately
   Remove your peonies from the box as soon as they arrive. Leave sleeves on for initial hydration if stems are tightly bound, but gently loosen them to allow air circulation.

2. Rehydrate the Stems

   • Recut each stem at a 45-degree a...

Care & Handling for December Peonies

December peonies are a rare seasonal gem, shipped fresh from cool-climate farms where they are grown specifically for winter availability. To ensure these premium blooms open beautifully and last through your event, proper hydration and care are essential—especially during colder months when handling conditions can vary.

What to Expect on Arrival

Your peonies will arrive in tight, ball-shaped buds. This stage is ideal for shipping and guarantees freshness. After hydration, the blooms will gradually open into large, full blossoms—often expanding to the size of a hand.

Step-by-Step Conditioning Instructions

1. Unpack Immediately
   Remove your peonies from the box as soon as they arrive. Leave sleeves on for initial hydration if stems are tightly bound, but gently loosen them to allow air circulation.

2. Rehydrate the Stems

   • Recut each stem at a 45-degree angle under running water or submerged in a clean bucket.

   • Remove any foliage that would sit below the water line to reduce bacteria.

   • Place stems in clean buckets filled with lukewarm filtered water.

3. Hydrate for at Least 24 Hours
   Allow your peonies to drink water in a cool, shaded area. A garage, basement, or floral cooler set around 40°F–50°F works best. Avoid placing them near heaters or in drafty areas.

Troubleshooting Bloom Speed

If peonies are not opening fast enough:

• Wrap flower heads gently in newspaper to retain humidity.

• Place stems in warm water (not hot) and add 1 teaspoon of sugar or floral preservative per liter.

• Keep them in a room with natural light or indirect lamp lighting at room temperature (65°F–72°F).

• Do not place them too close to direct heat or lamps, which may burn the petals.

If peonies are opening too quickly:

• Transfer them to a cooler area (refrigerated or naturally cold room).

• Use cold water only, and avoid sugar or floral food during this stage.

• Keep them away from direct sunlight or ripening fruit, which releases ethylene gas.

Additional Best Practices

• Recut stems and change water daily to maintain hydration and bloom life.

• Handle blooms gently—peony petals can bruise if squeezed or stacked too tightly.

• Use clean buckets and tools to avoid introducing bacteria.

• Peonies last longer in water-filled vases than in foam; if using floral foam, hydrate thoroughly and insert stems deeply.

By following these care guidelines, your December peonies will reach their full bloom potential and last beautifully for your winter wedding, event, or holiday décor. For further tips, contact our floral care team—we’re here to help you get the best results from every stem.