For Barry Philp, growing peonies is "a little bit of a selfish" passion project he loves to share but it's also a sharp business move.

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After replacing his cherry orchard with two hectares of the blooms, the peonies have become the most profitable enterprise on his Arding farm, commanding a premium from the lucrative spring bridal market.

"We grow peonies for probably reasons that are a little bit selfish," Mr Philp said.

"They are as much for our enjoyment, because we like to share the joy with other people."

But make no mistake, the peonies are top of the l

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