Peony plants can be often see in the gardens and flower beds, and it is impossible not to admire their large blooms and captivating fragrance.
Their flowers are really stunning, and very often they are so big and numerous that you will have to hoop them. Peonies are herbaceous perennials which usually reach from half a meter to one and a half meters in height.
But there is also a tree, which is typically twice higher. Peony Plants are native to Asian countries, southern Europe and western parts of the USA.
Planting Peonies
The best time for planting Peonies is the fall. If you plant them in early fall, till spring they will have a chance to develop a sufficient number of feeding roots.
It is better to give the plants a few weeks before the first frosts, they will do exceedingly well in the course of the year.
The plants who have less time for roots development are usually weaker, especially if the weather in spring is dry and hot. However, if it is necessary, Peonies can be planted just before the frosts.
In general Peony plants prefer cooler weather conditions. They prefer sunny locations and well drained soils. If your summer is too hot, Peony will do well in partially shaded places.
These plants are heavy feeders, so make sure that their soil is sufficiently fertilized. Use well rotted manure or compost. Avoid using fresh manure as it tends to burn the plants. Keep the soil moist, but not water logged.
In fact standing water is one of the biggest challenges for Peony plants: under such circumstances their roots begin to rot very quickly and the whole plant is actually in danger of dying. Obviously, drainage is very important.
Remember that Peonies do not like to be moved from one place to another, that is why make sure that you have chosen a perfect place for them at once.
The divisions of the roots have to be planted in holes which are deep enough to keep the highest bud approximately two inches below the ground level.
If you happen to plant Peony plants too deep, there is a strong probability that you will not be able to enjoy their bloom. On the contrary, if you plant the buds too close to the surface, there is a danger of damaging the buds during some seasonal works.
When you finish planting, it is nice to add some organic mulch in order to retain the soil moist. However, do not forget that you are not supposed to put the mulch on the crown, as it can result in crown rot.
Peony Growing Tips
Peony plants need very little care. As any other perennials, Peonies will benefit from a light addition of fertilizer in spring, especially if they grow on sandy soils. You can skip fertilizing if the soil is basically rich enough.
Do not be too enthusiastic about cutting the Peony flowers, though they can be irresistible. With flowers you will have to cut also the leaves, and they are essential fr the plant as food reserves.
oliage is especially important for the young plants. You can cut just a few flowers from every plant, and remember to keep as many leaves as possible. Remove foliage from Peony area in the end of the growing season.
Summary
Peony plants are one of those wonderfully fragrant plants with rather large blooms. The blooms are so large and heavy that you'll need to stake or hoop them, a small price to pay for such a stunning flower.
When planting the tuber make sure it is no deeper than 2 inches deep and don't crowd this plant as disease will travel one plant to another via the leaves. Plant them in a humus rich soil that is well drained in full sun and you should have trouble free beautiful flowers. Plant in the fall, however planting in containers in the Spring is fine.
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