How to Care for Peonies in a Vase: Keep Them Fresh and Glorious Longer
Peonies are the divas of the flower world—and for good reason. Their lush petals, delicate fragrance, and timeless beauty make them a favorite for weddings, Mother’s Day, and every moment worth celebrating. But once you bring these garden treasures indoors, how long do peonies last in a vase? And more importantly—how do you make them last longer?
As a luxury florist in the Bay Area, I’m often asked this by our clients. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your peonies blooming beautifully for days.
1. Start With the Freshest Peonies
The secret to long-lasting peonies starts at the moment of purchase. Look for buds that are still slightly closed—what we call the “marshmallow stage.” Fully open blooms are stunning but often have just 1–2 days left.
At Flowers Valley, we carefully select peonies at their peak to ensure you enjoy them for up to 7 days or more with proper care.
2. Trim the Stems Right Away
As soon as you get home, trim each stem at a 45° angle using clean, sharp scissors or floral shears. This allows the stem to absorb more water and prevents it from sitting flat at the bottom of the vase.
Re-trim the stems every 2–3 days to keep them fresh and hydrated.
3. Use a Clean Vase and Cool Water
Always start with a spotless vase—bacteria is the enemy of vase life. Fill the vase with cool, clean water and add a packet of flower food if you have it (we include one with every Flowers Valley delivery).
If you’re out of flower food, you can make a simple version at home: mix a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of bleach or apple cider vinegar into the water to nourish the flowers and reduce bacteria growth.
4. Peonies Love a Cool Room
Keep your arrangement in a cool area away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and ripening fruits (yes, fruit emits ethylene gas that speeds up decay!). Peonies open quickly in warm temperatures, so the cooler the space, the longer the bloom time.
5. Change the Water Every 1–2 Days
Fresh water = fresh flowers. Refresh the vase water every other day to reduce bacterial buildup. When changing the water, give the stems another gentle trim to help them drink more easily.
So, How Long Do Peonies Last in a Vase?
With proper care, peonies can last anywhere from 5 to 10 days in a vase. The key is freshness, temperature control, and regular water changes.
At Flowers Valley, we’re passionate about helping you get the most out of every bloom. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting someone special, a vase of peonies is more than just a floral arrangement—it’s a fleeting piece of beauty, worthy of care and attention.
Ready to bring peonies home?
Explore our Peony Collection featuring locally sourced, premium blooms—available for same-day delivery across the Bay Area.
Because beauty, like peonies, deserves to be cherished while it lasts.