Peonies are elegant flowers. Peonies are native to Asia, Europe, and Western North America.
Most Peonies are herbaceous perennials, but some are woody shrubs. The flowers are often fragrant and come in colors ranging from purple and pink to red, white, or yellow in late spring and early summer. The flowers have a short blooming season.
Peonies are popular garden plants in temperate regions. Herbaceous peonies are also sold as cut flowers.
Types of Peonies
- Herbaceous peony: These produce large blooms and are common in borders and flower beds, and the plants have a bushy, compact shape.
- Tree peonies: These are shrubby and reach a height of around 1.2m. They bloom from early April to late May.
- Intersectional peonies: These are a cross between tree and herbaceous and tend to have an intense color with long-lasting blooms. These are rare and more expensive.
How to grow Peonies?
Location
Peonies grow best in full sun, but some species can also be grown in shady conditions.
Container
Peonies prefer growing on the ground. In pots overwatering is the main issue. If you are choosing to grow peonies in pots, select a container that has 12 inches diameter and sufficient drainage holes.
Soil
Peonies prefer loose, well-draining soil. They need nutrient-rich soil.
Watering
Peonies need regular watering but don't grow in soggy conditions. They can tolerate dry conditions in summer. But in the flowering season, drought conditions result in flower dropping.
Fertilizer
If the soil is fertile, you won't need to fertilize them. If not, feed the plants once a year in spring, summer, or fall with a balanced fertilizer.
Disbudding
In April or May, remove the side shoots. This increases the blooms.
Gardener services
Landscaping services
Online nursery
Organic pesticides and fertilizers
Extra reading
Flowering Plants that are Easy to Grow
What Different Flowers Symbolise
Happy Gardening!
Dr. Vandana K.