How to Winterize Double Peonies

Overview

Peonies love a sunny spot in your garden, and they are drought resistant. They require a planting space at least 3 feet in diameter and should be planted away from tree roots. The best time to plant peonies is in September to early October. They bloom only once during the growing season, and the heavy blossoms of the double peony require support. Peonies do not thrive in subtropical climates because they need the chill of winter when they are in their dormant state. The double peony is a perennial, and you will follow the same winterizing steps that you would for most perennials.

Step 1

Cut back the peonies to 1 to 2 inches above the ground after the first hard frost. You need to cut back the dead plant material because the old foliage may contain botrytis (a fungal pathogen), which can cause damage to your double peonies during the cold and wet winter weather.

Step 2

Dispose of the dead plant material. Do not place any diseased material in your compost bin.

Step 3

Add a layer of mulch on top of the plant bed. You can use mulched leaves, straw, hay or even evergreen boughs, if available.