Peony
Peonies are long-lived perennials with spectacular, fragrant blooms in late spring to early summer. These classic green plants offer lush foliage and showy flowers that make excellent cut flowers and garden focal points.
Peony Care Guide
Environment
Peonies thrive in sunny locations with well-draining, fertile soil. They prefer a site with protection from strong winds that might damage their heavy blooms.
Light
Full sun to very light shade is ideal. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily promotes abundant flowering. Too much shade reduces blooming.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Peonies require a period of winter chill (at least 400 hours below 40°F/4°C) to bloom properly the following year.
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, peonies are relatively drought-tolerant but benefit from regular watering during dry periods, especially when buds are forming.
Humidity
Adapts to various humidity levels but prefers good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges and again after flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Care Tips
- Plant with the "eyes" (growth buds) no more than 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Planting too deeply inhibits flowering.
- Support plants with stakes or peony rings in early spring before growth gets too tall.
- Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation and direct energy back to the plant.
- Do not disturb established plants as they resent transplanting and may take years to recover.
Common Problems
- Botrytis blight causes buds to turn brown and fail to open, especially in wet springs.
- Ants on buds are harmless and are attracted to the sweet secretions - they actually help protect the buds from other insects.
- Failure to bloom can be caused by planting too deeply, too much shade, or recent transplanting.
- Powdery mildew appears as a white coating on leaves in late summer but rarely affects plant health.
Seasonal Care
Spring
New growth emerges. Apply fertilizer. Install supports early.
Summer
Water deeply during dry periods. Harvest flowers when they're in full bloom.
Fall
Cut foliage to ground level after the first frost to prevent disease overwintering. This is the best time for dividing or transplanting if necessary.
Winter
Plants are dormant. No care needed as they require winter chill for proper blooming.