The days continue to grow shorter. It's time to reflect on the past season and prepare for the next. Peony farming is a year-round commitment. Just as the flowers give us their best blooms in spring, we must give them the care they need during the colder months. In this post, I’ll share tips for proper peony care in fall and winter, as well as a quick reflection on this past growing season. I’m excited to announce something new for the upcoming holidays- a collection of peony photography and art, offered through card stock and prints.
1. Reflecting on the Past Season: A Year of Growth, Beauty, and a Special Photography/Floral Design Project
The highlight of the season was a special project, capturing the peony field in full bloom. For the first time ever, we decided to let a portion of the field bloom. We wanted to experience the flowers on the plants, and capture that. Grace Chappell and Rachel Loewen, photographers and floral designers agreed to help. This project allowed us to showcase the full life cycle of the peonies—from the stunning, untouched beauty in the field, to peony floral design, and the farm. Through this, we not only had the opportunity to document the peony season in a way we've never had before but also deepen the appreciation for the artistry involved in floral design and photography. It’s an experience that will continue to inspire me as I move forward in both farming and creative endeavors.
Photography and Floral Design: Grace Chappell and Rachel Loewen
As we move into the holiday season, I’m thrilled to announce a collection of beautiful peony images from our farm, now available for the first time as high-quality prints and stationery! They are the result of the project this year, with the field in bloom. These images capture the stunning beauty of the peonies and make for the perfect gift or seasonal greeting card.
Photography by Grace Chappell
2. Fall Peony Care: Preparing for Winter
Peonies need just a little attention to ensure they make it through the cold months healthy and ready to bloom again. Here’s what to do in the fall:
Cutting Back Foliage: If you haven't already, cut down the foliage on herbaceous plants (not tree peonies). This helps prevent any disease from lingering through the winter months. Cut back the stems to about 2-4 inches above the ground.
Cleaning Up: Remove any dead leaves or plant debris from around your peony plants. This helps reduce the risk of fungal infections and pests.
Watering: Even though the growing season is over, peonies still need some moisture going into winter. Make sure to water your plants thoroughly if there’s been little rain in the fall.
Mulching: Established plants don't require any mulch; they are very hardy to the elements. However, new and young plants benefit from a layer of leaf mulch or straw to keep the new root system from heaving out of the ground with the freeze and thaw during winter.
3. Winter Care: Time to Rest, Reflect, Dream, and Plan
This time of year is always a treat. It allows for time and space to reflect on what went well, what the struggles were, and how continue to grow and improve in beautiful and meaningful ways. We look forward to continually expanding the bouquet subscription, adding inventory through Whole Foods, supplying the very talented floral and event designers in the Kansas City area, and by special order. Please reach out if you are interested.
Happy Holiday to you and yours. I am so grateful for each of you, thank you for your enduring love and support.
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