Peonies are among the most beloved perennial flowers, known for their spectacular blooms, intoxicating fragrance, and impressive longevity. With proper care, these stunning plants can thrive for decades, becoming treasured garden centerpieces that bloom faithfully year after year. Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring for peonies successfully.
Understanding Peonies
Peonies belong to the genus Paeonia and come in three main types: herbaceous peonies (die back to ground level each winter), tree peonies (woody shrubs), and intersectional or Itoh peonies (hybrids combining characteristics of both). Most gardeners grow herbaceous peonies, which are the focus of this guide.
Planting Peonies
When to Plant
- Best time: Fall (September through October in most climates)
- Spring planting: Possible but less ideal; plants may not bloom the first year
- Bare root: Plant dormant bare root divisions in fall
- Container plants: Can be planted spring through fall
Site Selection
Peonies are long-term investments, so choose your location carefully:
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best blooming; will tolerate partial shade
- Soil drainage: Well-draining soil is crucial; peonies hate wet feet
- Air circulation: Good airflow prevents fungal diseases
- Space: Allow 3-4 feet between plants for mature spread
- Protection: Shelter from strong winds that can damage heavy blooms
Soil Preparation
- Soil type: Rich, fertile, well-draining soil with pH 6.0-7.0
- Amendments: Work in 2-4 inches of compost or well-aged manure
- Depth: Plant bare root crowns 2 inches deep (eyes should be 2 inches below soil surface)
- Planting too deep: Common mistake that prevents blooming
Watering Requirements
Establishment Phase (First Year)
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
- Deep, infrequent watering is better than frequent shallow watering
- Provide about 1 inch of water per week
Established Plants
- Drought tolerant once established, but perform best with consistent moisture
- Water deeply during dry spells, especially in spring during bud development
- Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases
- Water at soil level using soaker hoses or drip irrigation
Seasonal Watering
- Spring: Maintain consistent moisture during active growth and bud formation
- Summer: Deep watering during dry periods; reduce frequency in late summer
- Fall: Reduce watering as plants prepare for dormancy
- Winter: No supplemental watering needed for dormant plants
Fertilizing Peonies
Spring Feeding
- Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or similar) in early spring as shoots emerge
- Use 2-3 tablespoons per plant, worked into soil around base
- Bone meal can be added for phosphorus boost
- Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage over flowers
Organic Options
- Compost: Apply 2-3 inch layer around plants annually
- Well-aged manure: Work into soil in fall or early spring
- Fish emulsion: Liquid feeding every 4-6 weeks during growing season
- Kelp meal: Provides trace minerals and promotes strong growth
Timing and Frequency
- Early spring: Main fertilization as growth begins
- Post-bloom: Light feeding to support root development
- Fall: Avoid fertilizing to allow plants to prepare for dormancy
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadheading Spent Blooms
- Remove faded flowers immediately to prevent seed formation
- Cut back to first strong leaf or side bud
- Leave foliage intact to feed roots for next year’s blooms
- Collect and dispose of spent blooms to prevent disease
Fall Cleanup
- Herbaceous peonies: Cut stems to ground level after first hard frost
- Tree peonies: Minimal pruning; remove only dead or damaged wood
- Remove all plant debris to prevent overwintering diseases
- Apply 2-3 inch mulch layer after cleanup
Spring Pruning
- Remove any remaining dead stems and debris
- Tree peonies may need light shaping after bloom
- Remove any weak or crossing branches on tree peonies
Pest and Disease Management
Common Diseases
Botrytis Blight (Gray Mold)
- Symptoms: Gray fuzzy growth on buds, stems, and leaves
- Prevention: Good air circulation, avoid overhead watering
- Treatment: Remove affected parts, apply fungicide if severe
Powdery Mildew
- Symptoms: White powdery coating on leaves
- Prevention: Proper spacing, air circulation
- Treatment: Fungicidal sprays, resistant varieties
Crown Rot
- Symptoms: Stems wilt and die, crown becomes soft and dark
- Prevention: Well-draining soil, proper planting depth
- Treatment: Remove affected plants, improve drainage
Common Pests
Ants
- Often seen on buds but generally beneficial
- Help control aphids and don’t damage plants
- No treatment necessary
Thrips
- Cause silvery streaks on petals
- Control with insecticidal soap or beneficial insects
Nematodes
- Microscopic worms that damage roots
- Prevention: Healthy soil, proper drainage
- Treatment: Soil solarization, resistant varieties
Supporting Peony Plants
Why Support is Needed
- Heavy blooms can cause stems to bend or break
- Rain and wind increase risk of damage
- Proper support maintains plant appearance and health
Support Options
Click on “Next” to continue.
