Peony
Paeonia
Herbaceous or tree perennial with large, often fragrant blooms in late spring; includes hardy temperate species valued for long-lived, showy flowers and cut blooms.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: mildly toxic
Peony roots and seeds contain compounds that can cause vomiting or diarrhea if ingested by pets; contact a vet if ingestion occurs.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place peonies in a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun daily; morning sun with light afternoon shade is helpful in hot climates. Avoid deep, dense shade which reduces bud set and produces sparse, leggy growth.
Water
Water newly planted peonies deeply once or twice weekly to establish roots. For established plants, give a deep soak every 7–14 days during dry periods. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; allow the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) to dry between waterings.
Humidity
Peonies do well in average to moderate humidity. High humidity encourages fungal diseases, so ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and space plants to reduce moisture buildup.
Temperature
Peonies are cold-hardy and tolerate approx. -30°C to 35°C (-22°F to 95°F). They need winter chilling for reliable bud set and perform best in cool-temperate zones.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Gray mold (botrytis) on buds and stems
Cause: Cool, wet weather and poor air circulation allow Botrytis to infect buds and collapsed stems.
Solution: Remove and destroy infected tissue, improve airflow, avoid overhead watering, apply appropriate fungicide in severe cases.
Powdery mildew or leaf spots
Cause: High humidity, overcrowding, stressed plants or poor sanitation.
Solution: Improve spacing and airflow, remove affected leaves, ensure good sun exposure and apply fungicidal treatments if widespread.
Root rot and crown rot
Cause: Persistently wet, poorly drained soil or planting crowns too deep.
Solution: Improve drainage, plant crowns 3–5 cm deep, lift and replant if necessary, avoid overwatering and amend soil with organic matter.
Few or no blooms
Cause: Too much shade, planting crowns too deep, or excessive nitrogen fertilizer causing lush foliage instead of flowers.
Solution: Move to a sunnier spot, ensure crowns are shallow (3–5 cm below soil), reduce high-nitrogen feeds and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
✂️How to Propagate Peony
Division (recommended): In early fall when foliage dies back, dig up the clump, wash soil away and use a sharp knife to divide so each piece has 3–5 healthy 'eyes' and some roots. Replant crowns so eyes sit 3–5 cm below soil. Seed: collect ripe seeds, cold-stratify for 12–16 weeks, sow in free-draining mix; seedlings can take several years to flower.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Paeoniaceae
Native to: Temperate regions of Europe, Asia and western North America.
Natural Habitat: Peonies naturally grow in temperate meadows, open woodland edges and scrub on well-drained soils; they tolerate cold winters and prefer sunny, airy sites with seasonal moisture.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
After frost blackens foliage, cut plants to about 5 cm above soil and remove debris. Apply a light mulch in very cold regions to protect crowns but avoid piling mulch against crowns.
Spring
Remove winter mulch, plant or replant crowns with eyes 3–5 cm deep, stake tall varieties, and apply a balanced fertilizer as shoots emerge to support bud development.
Summer
Deadhead spent blooms to tidy plants and conserve energy. Water deeply during dry spells and monitor for fungal issues; provide stakes for heavy double blooms.
Fall
After foliage dies, clean up and compost only healthy debris. Divide overcrowded clumps in early fall and correct soil drainage before winter.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
When do peonies bloom?
Peonies typically bloom in late spring to early summer (May–June in temperate climates), timing varies by cultivar and local climate.
How deep should I plant peony crowns?
Plant crowns with the eyes 3–5 cm (1–2 inches) below the soil surface; deeper planting reduces flowering.
Can peonies be grown in containers?
Yes, but choose a large, deep container with excellent drainage and expect slower growth and less frequent flowering than in-ground plants.
How often should I fertilize peonies?
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again after flowering; avoid high-nitrogen feeds late in season to prevent weak stems.
When is the best time to divide peonies?
Divide peonies in early fall after foliage dies back, when crowns are dormant and soil is workable.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025